The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Whole-Body Health

If you or a loved one is living with sleep apnea, there are important things you should know about the effects on whole-body wellness. Left untreated, sleep apnea may also impact your oral health.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. Airflow blockage to the lungs throughout the night is responsible. This leads to gasping for air during sleep and sleep disruptions. The episodes also reduce oxygen to the brain, making it potentially dangerous to health and life.

You may have the condition if you experience loud snoring, morning tiredness, headache, dry mouth, or excessive daytime sleepiness. If you're unsure, ask a loved one to observe you while you sleep. This can help confirm or rule out the disorder. Another option is asking your doctor to perform a sleep apnea test, called a polysomnogram (PSG).

Sleep Apnea Causes and Risk Factors

Obstructive sleep apnea, which is most common, occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax during sleep. The airway narrows or closes as you inhale. Lax or weak muscles are typically the underlying cause.

A lack of airflow lowers the oxygen level in your blood. You may sound as if you’re choking or gasping for air. This triggers the brain to wake you up briefly so that you can breathe. The cycle continues throughout sleep, leaving you tired and sleepy the next day.

General risk factors include being born a male, having narrowed airways or thick neck, being overweight, family history, and certain medical conditions.

Sleep Apnea Link to Whole-Body Wellness

Sleep apnea affects 25 million American adults. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), and Complex Sleep Apnea are the main types. OSA is the most common and potentially most dangerous to health.

Blocked airflow to the lungs and brain may increase your risk for heart attack or stroke. Sleep interferences tend to leave patients feeling lethargic, moody, irritable, anxious, and unfocused. The symptoms may wind up taking a toll on your overall quality of life.

Doctors also notice a link between sleep apnea and oral health. For example, dry mouth resulting from sleep apnea has been linked to oral health issues. These include difficulty chewing and swallowing, gum infection, tooth decay, and bad breath.

Health Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment

Treatment can help reduce symptoms, prevent heart problems, and reduce the risk of other health complications. Doctors commonly recommend changes in sleep position to avoid breathing disruptions during sleep. Other treatment options are oral appliances and surgery in severe cases.

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a commonly prescribed treatment. The machine balances the air pressure to keep the airways open during sleep. Patients reported better sleep quality, reduced snoring, and increased energy. The CPAP machine has also been shown to lower the risk of heart-related problems, such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack.

Where to Get Sleep Apnea Treatment in Stuart, FL?

Not all dental clinics provide sleep apnea treatment in Stuart, FL. At Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart, we include sleep apnea treatment as part of our comprehensive approach to providing dental services. Our decision stems from recognizing the health benefits and a desire to promote whole-body wellness in our patients.

Types of Sleep Apnea Treatment at Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart

Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart offers two affordable options for patients considering solutions that do not involve using a CPAP machine. Dr. Amy Crary and Dr. Rebeca Viego are committed to providing personalized care for each patient in a professional and supportive environment. Treatment may follow after a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. The following treatments are intended to help reduce or eliminate symptoms, improve sleep, and encourage holistic wellness:

1. FDA-Approved Oral Appliance

We’ve designed an FDA-approved oral appliance that keeps your airways open during sleep. The appliance looks like a mouthguard and works by keeping the jaw in a forward position. The device is comfortable to wear and has proven to be a highly effective solution.

2. Quietnite Laser Treatment

Quietnite Laser Treatment is a non-invasive procedure done with a DEKA laser. The advanced treatment involves using laser light to stimulate collagen production. Collagen helps tighten the muscles in the back of the mouth. The treatment is quick and painless with no downtime. Two sessions per year can significantly reduce snoring and sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Treatment for Better Sleep

Seeking sleep apnea treatment not only enhances whole-body wellness, but also quality of life. Our skilled dental team will tailor a treatment plan that addresses your needs. Connect with us today to schedule an appointment. Call (772) 463-4026 or complete the online appointment form.

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