Can the Dentist Help With My Poor Sleeping Habits?
Posted on 4/15/2024 by Weo Admin
If you are up reading this blog early in the morning or late into the evening, you are in good company. Many Americans have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep each day. In fact, the average American adult may actually get less than six hours of good-quality sleep each evening. One reason adults do not get enough sleep is that many suffer from sleep apnea. If you have not been sleeping well, our dentist may be able to help.
Sleep Apnea? What Is That?
Sleep apnea is a condition that adults can suffer from. It occurs when the body stops breathing for a few seconds dozens of times each night. When it stops breathing, the body has to wake itself up, which is why it may not sleep well. If you have a family history of sleep apnea, are overweight or obese, are a male in midlife or later, or have high blood pressure, you are more likely to have sleep apnea.
Your spouse or partner may have commented that you snore loudly, or you may feel exhausted after waking up. You may also fall asleep during the day. These are signs that you may have sleep apnea.
Is There a Dental Treatment for Sleep Apnea?
Many people have heard of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, and while these machines work well, they also can make it difficult to get comfortable during sleep. Dentists have a device that may work just as well for you.
Oral appliances for sleep apnea are called mandibular advancement devices. They look like a mouthguard you might wear to play sports, but their function is slightly different. These sleep apnea devices make sure your lower jaw is in its proper place during sleep, which keeps all of your mouth structures in place and allows you to breathe freely and sleep well.
If you are not sure whether you have sleep apnea or whether you need a device for sleep apnea, we can help. Why not schedule an appointment to talk to one of our dentists today?
If you are up reading this blog early in the morning or late into the evening, you are in good company. Many Americans have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep each day. In fact, the average American adult may actually get less than six hours of good-quality sleep each evening. One reason adults do not get enough sleep is that many suffer from sleep apnea. If you have not been sleeping well, our dentist may be able to help.