Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. At Sachem Dental Group in Long Island (Suffolk County), our experienced dental professionals recognize the importance of identifying and treating sleep disorders to improve our patients’ overall health and well-being. Understanding the causes and symptoms of sleeping disorders as well as the different types of sleep disordered breathing and your dentist’s role can help you improve your wellness and quality of life.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder characterized by interrupted breathing. Common types are caused when your airway partially or completely blocked, leading to brief pauses in breathing, sometimes lasting several seconds. These pauses can happen numerous times throughout the night, causing disruptions in sleep patterns and leading to various health problems including cardiovascular emergencies.
Types of Sleeping Disorders:
There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome (CSAS). OSA is the most common form and occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, causing the airway to collapse or become narrowed. CSA, on the other hand, is caused by a failure of the brain to transmit the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. CSAS is a combination of both OSA and CSA.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
Sleep disordered breathing symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly include daytime sleepiness or fatigue, weight gain, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and mood changes. Snoring may or may not be present. It is important to note that not all individuals with sleep apnea snore, and snoring alone does not necessarily indicate the presence of sleep apnea.
Which Type of Sleep Apnea Can Dentists Treat?
Dentists primarily focus on the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as it is the most prevalent type and associated with the oral structures. OSA occurs due to the physical blockage of the airway during sleep, which is usually caused by the collapse of soft tissues at the back of the throat. Dentists who are trained in sleep disorder treatment can play a crucial role in screening for and managing this condition.
How Oral Appliances Help Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
Oral appliances are custom-made devices that can be used to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances are designed to keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue during sleep, preventing the collapse of soft tissues. Oral appliances are comfortable to wear and portable, making them an attractive alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines for many patients.
When to See a Sleep Dentist:
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are experiencing symptoms such as chronic snoring, daytime fatigue, TMJ pain, or morning headaches, it is important to schedule a consultation with a sleep apnea dentist in Long Island. We can evaluate your symptoms, conduct a thorough examination, and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection and intervention can help prevent the progression of sleep apnea and minimize potential health risks.
Can You Get a Home Sleep Study?
In some cases, a home sleep study can gather data about your sleep patterns for a formal diagnosis. A home sleep study involves the use of portable devices that measure variables such as breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate while you sleep. The data collected from the study can provide valuable insights into the presence and severity of sleep apnea, helping specialists develop an effective treatment plan.
OSA Treatment for a Healthier Life
Effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is essential for overall health and well-being. Untreated sleep apnea can in fact be life altering. Seeking treatment for sleep apnea can lead to improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, better cognitive function, and reduced health risks.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can have significant negative impacts on both your physical and mental health. Here are some of the dangers and potential consequences of not treating sleep apnea:
Cardiovascular Problems:
Sleep apnea puts a strain on your cardiovascular system. The repeated interruptions in breathing lead to drops in blood oxygen levels, causing your heart to work harder to supply adequate oxygen to the body. Over time, this can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Daytime Fatigue and Impaired Functioning:
One of the hallmark symptoms of sleep apnea is excessive daytime sleepiness. When your sleep is disrupted throughout the night, you are unable to achieve the deep, restorative sleep necessary for optimal functioning during the day. This can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, reduced productivity, and impaired performance at work or school.
Mental Health Issues:
Chronic sleep deprivation resulting from untreated sleep apnea can contribute to the development or worsening of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Disrupted sleep patterns can negatively impact your emotional well-being, making it more challenging to cope with stress and affecting your overall quality of life.
Increased Risk of Accidents:
Daytime drowsiness and impaired cognitive function caused by sleep apnea can significantly increase the risk of accidents, both on the road and in other aspects of daily life. Fatigue-related accidents are a serious concern and can have severe consequences for both the individual and others around them.
Weight Gain and Metabolic Issues:
There is evidence linking sleep apnea to weight gain and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Sleep deprivation affects the hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased cravings for high-calorie foods and decreased motivation for physical activity. This combination can contribute to weight gain and the development of metabolic problems.
Schedule a Dental Screening
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health, not to mention your family. At Sachem Dental Group in Long Island (Suffolk County), our team of dental professionals is dedicated to screening for and treating sleep apnea to improve our patients’ overall quality of life. If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep disordered breathing, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a sleep apnea dentist in Long Island. We will work closely with you to determine the appropriate diagnostic tests, develop a personalized treatment plan, and provide ongoing support to ensure optimal results. Take the first step towards a healthier life by seeking professional help today.