How a Dentist Can Help Solve Your Sleep Apnea Issues

Looking for ways to solve your sleep apnea issues? Whether you have been officially diagnosed with this serious sleeping disorder or are exhibiting one or more signs of this condition, making an appointment with a dentist for a complete evaluation is your next step.

While many people believe that only a medical professional can solve sleep apnea issues, this is simply not the case. Dental professionals are often the first choice for those suffering from this sleeping disorder, as they are specifically trained in dealing with issues related to the mouth.

Dentists and sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping disorder that can really get in the way of your being able to properly function each and every day. It not only gets in the way of your ability to get a good night’s rest, but it can also lead to your potentially being diagnosed with additional health problems, such as stroke, heart disease and diabetes.

Your sleep apnea could be directly related to your oral health, making it a good idea for you to see a dentist for treatment as well as your primary care physician. According to the National Sleep Foundation, an estimated 18 million Americans have sleep apnea, which means you are definitely not alone when dealing with this common issue.

What a dentist will look for when diagnosing sleep apnea

A common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. This means a dentist will ask their patient whether or not they snore and if they do, how severe their snoring is. Snoring occurs when someone is sleeping and their airway is partially blocked, creating the sound of snoring.

Another common sign of sleep apnea is bruxism. When someone shows signs of bruxism, which means they grind their teeth, they are more likely to be diagnosed with sleep apnea. A dentist will also look at the shape and size of their jaw, as someone who has a small jaw is more likely to have this sleeping disorder.

How a dentist can help with sleep apnea

There are a few different ways a dentist can help someone who is experiencing sleep apnea issues. Understanding the reason behind the sleep apnea is first necessary and will be determined after the dentist has performed certain tests. The results will determine the type of treatment options the dentist will suggest for the patient, which can range from something as simple as changing one’s sleeping habits or something as serious as surgery.

Ready to make an appointment?

Making an appointment now to diagnose your sleep apnea is strongly suggested. When you do, you can expect one of our caring dentists to properly diagnose your type of sleep apnea. Once a proper diagnosis is received a treatment plan can be made.

During your initial appointment, you are encouraged to ask the dentist all the questions you have regarding your sleep disorder, as the more you know, the better equipped you will be for dealing with your issue.

Are you considering sleep apnea treatment in the Marietta area? Get more information at https://www.mytotaldentistry.com.

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