Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can last for several seconds to minutes and occur many times throughout the night. The most common types of sleep apnea are:
OSA is the most common form and occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much to allow normal breathing. The airway narrows or closes when these muscles relax, and breathing may be briefly cut off. The brain senses the lack of oxygen and briefly awakens the person, typically with a snorting, choking, or gasping sound, which enables breathing to resume.
A dentist in Stratford, CT, may help diagnose and manage sleep apnea by offering treatments such as oral appliances to keep the airway open. These awakenings are usually so brief that the person does not remember them. Still, they can occur dozens of times per hour throughout the night, preventing the individual from reaching the deep, restful sleep phases.
The symptoms of sleep apnea can vary depending on the severity and type of the condition, but common signs include:
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or if your partner notices that you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can lead to various health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke if left untreated. Contact us to learn morel
Several factors can contribute to the development of sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. These include:
Sleep apnea is more than just an annoyance; it poses serious risks to your health and well-being. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to various health complications, including:
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram. This test can be conducted in a sleep clinic or at home using portable equipment. During a sleep study, various body functions are monitored, including brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels.
Once the results are analyzed, Dr. Elnazer and the team at Advanced Dentistry of Connecticut will determine if you have sleep apnea and how severe the condition is.
The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable, and a range of treatment options are available to manage the condition and improve sleep quality. The most common treatments include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, and oral appliance therapy.
In mild cases of sleep apnea, lifestyle modifications may be effective in reducing symptoms. These include:
CPAP therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, keeping the airway open and preventing breathing interruptions.
While CPAP is highly effective, some patients find it uncomfortable or inconvenient, making it challenging to stick with the therapy.
For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy may be a suitable alternative. Dr. Mohamed Elnazer offers custom-fitted oral appliances that help reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.
These oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), are designed to move the lower jaw forward, preventing the collapse of soft tissues in the throat and reducing the frequency of apnea episodes.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat sleep apnea, especially if there are anatomical issues that contribute to airway obstruction. Surgical options include removing excess tissue from the throat, repositioning the jaw, or implanting devices that help keep the airway open.
Treating sleep apnea can have a profound impact on your overall health and quality of life. Some of the key benefits include:
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have far-reaching effects on your health and well-being if left untreated. At Advanced Dentistry of Connecticut in Stratford, CT, Dr. Mohamed Elnazer and his team are committed to providing expert care and personalized treatment options for sleep apnea.
Dr. Mohamed Elnazer is a diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Earning a diplomate status from the ABDSM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in dental sleep medicine. Dr. Elnazer also completed a mini residency in adult dental sleep medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He is uniquely qualified to help you find relief from your symptoms with effective sleep apnea treatment.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are experiencing symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness, schedule a consultation with Dr. Elnazer today. Whether you need lifestyle recommendations, CPAP therapy, or a custom oral appliance, Advanced Dentistry of Connecticut is here to help you achieve better sleep and a healthier life.
Experience top-notch dental care at Advanced Dentistry of Connecticut! Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized treatments to meet all your dental needs. Call us today at 203-375-1649 or visit us at 2900 Main St STE 2C, Stratford, CT 06614 to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier smile!