Does your partner snore so loudly that it wakes you up in the middle of the night? Do they hold their breath while sleeping and then wake with a start? Do they constantly complain about being tired, even when they go to bed at a reasonable hour? If so, they may have sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes your breathing to be interrupted during sleep. When your tongue and soft palate block your airway, it causes you to snore loudly, choke, or gasp due to lack of oxygen. Often, obstructive sleep apnea sufferers don’t realize they have the condition; they feel exhausted during the day and suffer from headaches or other issues.
Sleep Apnea’s Effects on Your Oral Health
Obstructive sleep apnea can have several adverse effects on your oral health, including:
Bruxism—Some sleep apnea sufferers grind their teeth. This can wear down their teeth, making them more susceptible to decay.
Dry mouth—People with sleep apnea are more likely to sleep with their mouths open, which can lead to dry mouth. This can increase the amount of plaque in their mouths, causing cavities and gum disease.
TMJ issues—The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, connects your jaw to your skull. Sleep apnea makes you more likely to clench your jaw, which can lead to headaches and bruxism.
Marysville Solutions for Better Sleep
The most commonly recognized treatment for sleep apnea is the CPAP machine. It delivers a steady stream of air into your mouth so your airway stays open. The only problem is that many patients don’t use their CPAP machine regularly because it’s loud or the mask is uncomfortable.
At Blu Dental & Wellness, we understand the need for an alternative to the CPAP machine, so we offer a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD). This oral appliance is like a mouthguard designed to keep your airway open by moving your lower jaw forward. This allows you to breathe normally and enjoy quality sleep.
Want to Learn More about Sleep Apnea in Marysville, WA?
We will happily assist you when you’re ready to discuss your sleep apnea treatment with our dental team! We will work to treat your sleep disorder so you can improve your oral health and get the rest you need. You can contact our dental office at (360) 659-7983 to schedule an appointment.