Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder marked by interruptions and pauses in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by obstructions in the airway, such as the tongue rolling back in the throat or collapsed tissues in the airway. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to several serious health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver problems.
Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a sleep physician. We recommend that you talk to your dentist, as well as your doctor, if you suffer from the symptoms of sleep apnea. Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme drowsiness during the day
- Personality changes and irritability
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Snoring
- Awakening with a very dry or sore throat
- Frequent morning headaches
Sleep apnea treatment may depend on the severity of the condition. If you suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, our dentist may recommend an oral appliance. The oral appliance works to treat obstructive sleep apnea by fitting over your teeth and keeping your airway open while you sleep. It can work by preventing the tongue from blocking the air passage or by holding your jaw in a position that prevents airway blockages during sleep.
Dr. Hever and Dr. Stout can help you address sleep issues when you visit Finesse Dental Care for treatment for sleep apnea in Westlake Village, California. Sleep apnea is an important issue that is more and more at the forefront, with recent regulations requiring the testing of truck drivers, train conductors, and other professionals to ensure safety. Plus, did you know that medical insurance often covers your sleep apnea test at 100%? We encourage you to speak with our dentists if you or a family member struggles with snoring or obstructed breathing at night. We would be happy to provide you with a home sleep apnea test and help you create a customized treatment plan; call (805) 742-4749 or visit Finesse Dental Care today!
