Why Should I See a Dentist for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
At first, it may seem odd that a dentist could offer sleep apnea treatment. However, it is important to keep in mind
that dentists are experts in much more than just the teeth. They are intimately familiar with facial anatomy and the
structures in the upper airway. Dentists are therefore uniquely qualified to design oral appliances that can
correctly reposition the lower jaw to allow for uninterrupted sleep.
Plus, because you should regularly visit your dentist anyway, you have a convenient, built-in appointment where you
can express concerns about the quality of your sleep and receive guidance on how to find relief.
Does Everyone Who Snores Have Sleep Apnea?
No. Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea and not everyone with sleep apnea snores. Snoring is nothing more than
the sound that is created when air brushes past tissues in the airway. By itself, it is harmless. However, it is
often connected to OSA because the same tissues that vibrate during snoring can periodically block the airway and
cause apneas (periods of not breathing). Frequent, loud snoring is often a big sign that OSA is present.
If you are concerned that your snoring, or that of your partner, is a sign of OSA, you should seek proper testing so
you can start to explore treatment options.
Can I Diagnose Sleep Apnea on My Own?
Even if you are exhibiting symptoms of OSA, that does not mean you have it. Even data from an Apple Watch or another
smart device is not enough to diagnose OSA (even though such information can alert you to the need for professional
care). It is important to undergo a sleep test so an expert can analyze your vital signs while you are asleep.
Will My Sleep Apnea Go Away If I Lose Weight?
Being overweight is a major risk factor for OSA. That is because excess fat around the throat and abdomen can
interfere with breathing and increase the risk of nighttime respiratory problems. Some patients can significantly
reduce or even eliminate their OSA symptoms after losing as little as 5 – 10% of their body weight.
Of course, losing weight is not a guarantee that your sleep apnea will go away. OSA can be caused by numerous issues,
some of which are entirely unrelated to body weight and composition.
Will Oral Appliance Therapy Make CPAP Therapy Unnecessary?
Remember that with CPAP therapy, the machine will physically force air through your airways while you wear the mask
throughout the night. However, while the treatment is incredibly effective, only about 50% of patients who are
prescribed CPAP therapy ever use it! In many mild to moderate sleep apnea cases, an oral appliance can be used to
replace the CPAP machine. Still, if your situation is more severe, then an oral appliance may not work as
effectively by itself. Consult your sleep doctor and dentist to determine the best treatment to help you get the
rest you need.
Can Children Have Sleep Apnea?
Around 1-8% of all children indeed experience sleep apnea. Even so, kids who struggle with this condition may also
have different symptoms compared to adults. These can involve complications such as sleep terrors, bed-wetting,
inability to focus, attention or learning problems, and hyperactivity. If you have a child or a loved one who might
be experiencing interrupted sleeping, they should follow the same process as adults, which is to visit a sleep
doctor for a sleep study to determine the best treatment based on their needs.
How Soon After Starting Sleep Apnea Treatment Will I Notice Improvement?
If you’re using a CPAP machine for your sleep apnea therapy, it may take some time to grow accustomed to
wearing the mask throughout the night. This is especially because the machine is quite loud, especially for light
sleepers. By wearing an oral appliance for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you should expect better sleep right away.
Still, it could take a night or two to get used to having it in your mouth. The only way to know for certain if your
treatment is working is to undergo another sleep test. Also, if you notice your symptoms are reducing or subsiding,
then this is a great sign!
Are There At-Home Remedies for Sleep Apnea?
There are certainly many products that can potentially help you sleep and relax more, such as essential oils and
weighted blankets. Even so, oral appliance or CPAP therapy will typically have a greater impact on the quality of
your sleep than anything else. If you’re struggling with this condition, you’ll have to address the
fundamental issue by opening up your airways, either with an oral appliance or a CPAP machine. Until you receive
these devices, try avoiding looking at your phone just before bed, and make sure to exercise and be active during
the day to help you sleep much more easily.