Sleep Apnea Treatment at Legacy Dental
At Legacy Dental, we understand the significant impact sleep apnea can have on your overall health and quality of life. Sleep apnea is a serious condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and other health issues such as fatigue, heart problems, and more.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked or collapses during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. The most common type, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much, narrowing the airway.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
- Loud snoring
- Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Gasping or choking for air during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Restless sleep or frequent awakenings
- Irritability or mood changes
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
- Reduced libido or sexual dysfunction
Dental Signs of Sleep Apnea:
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Frequent grinding or clenching of teeth, which can lead to worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, and jaw pain.
- Scalloped Tongue: Indentations or ridges on the sides of the tongue from pressing against the teeth.
- Dry Mouth: A common sign due to mouth breathing during sleep.
- Enlarged or Reddened Uvula and Tonsils: Indicating potential airway obstruction.
- Jaw Pain or TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder): Pain or discomfort in the jaw joint, often linked to sleep apnea.
- Periodontal Disease: Chronic inflammation of the gums, potentially exacerbated by poor sleep quality.
Our Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea:
We offer customized dental solutions to help manage sleep apnea effectively. One of the most common and non-invasive treatments is the use of oral appliance therapy. These appliances are custom-fitted to keep the airway open by supporting the jaw in a forward position, reducing the risk of airway collapse during sleep.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy:
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- Non-invasive and portable
- Effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea
- Improves sleep quality and overall health
Why Choose Legacy Dental for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Dr. Lauren Whitehurst is credentialed by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), ensuring that you receive expert care tailored to your needs. Our team works closely with sleep specialists to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that improves your sleep and enhances your quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or have already been diagnosed, contact us today to learn more about our personalized treatment options. Let us help you achieve a restful night’s sleep and a healthier future.