Sleep Apnea in Gig Harbor, WA
CPAP, Oral Devices & More
Holistic Sleep Dentistry
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes a person to repeatedly stop breathing throughout the night. Well, there are few types of sleep apnea, the most common type to affect people is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
These breathing stops occur because the muscles in the throat relax, causing them to temporarily block your airways. To “uncork” this blocked airway, your body will cause your body to momentarily wake up. As a consequence, this reduces the overall quality of your sleep and can cause morning migraines and daytime drowsiness. Depending on the severity, a person can temporarily stop breathing hundreds of times a night.
Signs of sleep apnea include:
Sleep apnea can lead to a variety of problems, including:
If untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risks of health complications, such as high blood pressure, obesity, heart problems, and even stroke.
The poor quality of sleep can cause problems at work or school and make it difficult for you to concentrate. It can also make driving or operating machinery dangerous since you won’t be focused.
Your dentist can help you treat sleep apnea using a variety of methods. You may be fitted with an oral device, making it easier for you to breathe while you sleep. This device is small and does not bother your gag reflex.
Other treatments may be more behavioral focused, such as losing weight, quitting smoking and changing your sleeping position.
If you or one of your loved ones is suffering from sleep apnea, contact us … Click to go to the page of contact … at Uptown Dental Gig Harbor today or schedule a consultation.
