Questions for Your South Charlotte Dentist
When it comes to your dental health, we hope you have questions!
Educating our patients about their oral health is one of our primary goals and favorite things to do, so we love to answer your questions. We've compiled a few of the more common questions we hear from patients and answered them here, but if you don't see the answer or information you're looking for, don't hesitate to call us at (704) 317-7337 and speak with one of our knowledgable team members who will find the answer for you.
TMJ and Sleep Apnea Treatment
There's nothing better than a good night's sleep; unfortunately, many people wake up feeling agitated and tired because they suffer from a sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. Your South Charlotte, NC, dentist may be able to help resolve your symptoms with oral appliance therapy. Please keep reading to learn more about it.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
OSA, or obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the soft tissue in the back of your throat relaxes and obstructs your airway. This can cause the following symptoms:
- Snoring
- Daytime sleepiness
- Multiple awakenings associated with gasping and choking
- Dry mouth and sore throat
- Headaches
In addition to these symptoms, sleep apnea can lead to several health issues as well.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, you may be eligible for oral appliance therapy. We can customize a device that prevents your tongue from blocking the back of your throat or moving your lower jaw forward. Either way, your airway will be open while you sleep, allowing you to get the rest you deserve.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Weddington
We'd be happy to assist you if you want to discuss your oral appliance therapy options with our dental team! At Dental Wellness of Charlotte, we want you to get the sleep you need. Contact our dental office at (704) 317-7337 for more information.
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. Recognizing its symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Some of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Chronic (and loud) snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
Beyond these primary symptoms, sleep apnea can also cause restless sleep and frequent awakenings during the night. Sleep apnea is also commonly associated with other health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
How Your Dentist Helps Treat Sleep Apnea
One of the most common treatments involves a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, which keeps the airways open by providing a constant stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. Dental devices and oral appliances, like snore guards, can also be custom-fitted to help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue.
In some cases, lifestyle changes, like losing weight, quitting smoking, and trying to adopt a new sleep position, are recommended to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery to remove or shrink tissue obstructing the airway may be recommended.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Weddington and South Charlotte, NC
If you’re exhibiting sleep apnea symptoms and want to discuss your treatment options with a top-quality dental practice in Weddington, contact dentist Dr. Sergei Shirman and the excellent Dental Wellness of Charlotte team to schedule a consultation!