If you or your partner snore, it can be a sign of sleep apnea. One of the most common types of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, which obstructs the airway during sleep. When you fall asleep, the tissues in your airways relax and can become smaller. However, airways can become obstructed by these tissues. In the most severe cases, sleep apnea can cause heart problems, including strokes and heart attacks. Patients often wake up at night to breathe because they are being deprived of proper oxygen flow.
Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
Risk factors for sleep apnea include:
- Diabetes
- Males
- Obesity
- Sinus issues
- Deviated septum
- A family history of obstructive sleep apnea
- Large neck circumference
Signs of Sleep Apnea
There are several common symptoms of sleep apnea to look our for, including:
- Snoring
- Chronic fatigue
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Chronic migraines
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, call DC Precision Dentistry at . It is important to catch sleep apnea early before more problems persist and increase in severity.
Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Dr. Justin Deckard and his dental team offer oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea at the DC Precision Dentistry. This treatment method is practical, discreet, and custom-fit to each patient for their comfort. Oral appliances act like mouth guards and are worn during sleep. They open up the airways to allow oxygen to get to vital organs. Oral appliances can also eliminate the vibrations that cause snoring for a more restful night of sleep.
This treatment method can prevent sleep apnea from worsening. In the most severe cases, sleep apnea can cause heart problems and stop breathing. It is important to receive treatment with our professional team if only as a preventative measure. Our team will be happy to find a solution that works for your specific needs.
Request an Appointment
Call DC Precision Dentistry at (202) 851-7554 for comfortable and comprehensive dental care. You can also request an appointment online here. Our professionals will be happy to help you find a solution that stops your sleep apnea at the source.