Are you tired, stressed out, and moody because of interrupted sleep? Sleep apnea , a condition in which breathing stops for periods of 10 seconds or longer, can interrupt deep sleep that makes people feel rested. Non-surgical dental appliances have proven more effective than surgery for many sleep apnea patients.
What is Sleep Apnea?
When a sleeping person stops breathing for 10 or more seconds, they have “ apnea .” OSAS , or obstructive sleep apnea syndrome , is one type of sleep apnea . Lack of adequate breath during sleep reduces airflow, causing the brain to tell the body to wake up and breathe. In some cases, sleep apnea patients only move into a lighter stage of sleep, while other times, patients wake completely.
Modern Smiles has changed my sleep and my life. Several years ago I was diagnosed with "Cosmetic Snoring" and what an annoying diagnosis it has been. I have tried everything to stop it I have had extensive and painful surgery in which my tonsils, uvula, and adenoids were removed. As well as having a deviated septum fixed. This only fixed my snoring issues for one year and cost several thousands of dollars. I have also tried multiple over the counter fix’s pillows, nasal strips, pills, you name it I tried it. I also tried another offices oral appliance only to be disappointed again I experienced headaches jaw pain and extreme displeasure. The only thing that fixed my snoring prior to Modern Smiless was C-PAP unfortunately by wearing one with my diagnosis I put myself at risk of developing sleep apnea.
I now wear an oral appliance that completely treats my "Cosmetic Snoring" called the Somnodent. I no longer suffer from sore ribs created by my spouse elbowing me throughout my sleep in order to stop my snoring. I am also comfortable road tripping with buddies confident that I will not snore. As an added note I am also the office manager of The Health and Wellness Sleep Institute where we have referred several patients over to visit with their talented staff in order to successfully treat sleep apnea with the same comfortable oral appliance I wear to treat snoring. Thank You Modern Smiless you Rock!!!
What’s the Problem?
Many factors may contribute to airway blockage, from the size of passages and oral or airway structures, to swelling of passageways or position of the tongue. Disrupted deep sleep can affect mood, health, and cause daytime sleepiness. The added stress and fatigue can cause lack of concentration, loss of memory, and accidents in the workplace or while driving. Other health risks include high blood pressure and heart problems, and even a risk of premature death. The sleep apnea patient’s snores can disturb a sleeping partner’s rest, too.
Non-Surgical Sleep Apnea Therapies
A few tests can determine whether you suffer from OSAS , and non-surgical therapies may alleviate the problem. A nasal mask (cPAP) can deliver air to keep nasal passages open during sleep. Even more effective, patients may now wear dental appliances such as the SomnoMed MAS, a device that repositions the tongue or mandible (lower jawbone). A Swedish study showed that the anterior mandibular positioning dental device (AMP) is actually more effective than surgical therapies. The same study stated that adverse health effects and appliance repairs were rare.
According to experts, sleep apnea is an under-diagnosed condition, and more men than women suffer; a sleep apnea device may improve your quality of life. It’s just another way your dentist can help you smile.