Millions of Americans snore. Snoring happens because the soft tissues at the back of the throat relax during sleep, and when air passes through them, it can create loud buzzing, whooshing, or honking sounds.
For most people, snoring is a minor annoyance. But if it causes you to wake up multiple times a night or leaves you gasping for air, you may have sleep apnea, which can increase your risk of other health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.
At his practice in Manhattan, New York, general and cosmetic dentist Robert G. Veligdan, DMD, specializes in sleep apnea treatment. He serves patients in the Columbus Circle, Midtown West, and Hell's Kitchen neighborhoods.
Read on to learn what sleep apnea is, the risks it presents, and how a dentist can help you manage it.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes you to repeatedly stop breathing during sleep. This can happen because of an airway blockage (obstructive sleep apnea) or because there’s a disconnect between your brain and respiratory system (central sleep apnea).
Researchers estimate that about one billion people worldwide have sleep apnea. Common symptoms include:
Many people with sleep apnea experience daytime fatigue and brain fog since the condition prevents them from getting adequate rest.
Snoring loudly or breathing abnormally during sleep may not seem serious. However, because sleep apnea stops you from breathing, it can affect oxygen flow to vital organs, including your heart, kidneys, and brain.
One or two brief episodes of sleep apnea may not have lasting consequences, but if you don’t take steps to address the condition, you’re more likely to experience:
Untreated sleep apnea can also increase the risk of daytime incidents, such as falls and car accidents.
The only way to confirm a sleep apnea diagnosis is to undergo a sleep study. A sleep study is prescribed by your primary care physician to monitor your breathing patterns, heart rate, and brain waves during sleep.
If your doctor confirms that you have sleep apnea, they can refer you to Dr. Veligdan for a custom oral appliance.
A custom oral appliance for sleep apnea looks similar to a sports mouthguard. It’s a removable, plastic device that fits comfortably over your lower teeth, repositioning your jaw and tongue to keep your airways open.
Oral sleep apnea appliances are easier to use and more comfortable than continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) — a common sleep apnea treatment.
Since the device fits comfortably into your mouth, you don’t have to worry about a clunky or movement-restricting mask. It also doesn’t require electricity and can be easily packed into an overnight bag or carry-on luggage.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and either don’t want to use a CPAP device or are tired of wearing one, we can help.
After reviewing your dental records, discussing your treatment goals, and completing an oral exam, Dr. Veligdan can make personalized treatment recommendations.
To schedule an oral appliance consultation, contact us. Call our office in Manhattan, New York City, at (551) 214 -1708 or book online.
