Do you snore or always feel drowsy, even after getting a full night’s rest? If so, you could have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. The most common type of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, causing a temporary blockage of the airway. This condition not only disrupts your sleep but also poses significant health risks, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Lengthy pauses in breathing while asleep
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or in a loved one, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A sleep physician can diagnose sleep apnea, but our dentist can play a vital role in your treatment, particularly for mild to moderate cases of this condition.
Dr. Linda King offers custom-made oral appliances designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. These devices fit comfortably over your teeth and work by repositioning your jaw or preventing your tongue from blocking your airway. Oral appliance therapy is a noninvasive, effective solution that can significantly improve your quality of life by reducing the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.
Our team is committed to providing personalized care to address your unique needs. We work closely with you and your sleep physician to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment for your needs. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. We are here to help you achieve better sleep and improve your overall health. Contact Sweet Spot Smiles today at 770-285-2864 to schedule a consultation with our caring dentist and learn how sleep apnea treatment in Locust Grove, Georgia, can help you take the first step toward restful nights and healthier days.
FAQ
What is sleep apnea, and how does it affect my health?
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Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can lead to poor sleep quality and serious health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Sleep apnea also contributes to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, which can negatively impact your overall wellbeing and quality of life, as well as behavioral and mood disorders. The quality of your sleep affects every aspect of your health, so we encourage you to seek a diagnosis and treatment if you believe you may have sleep apnea.
How can I tell if I have sleep apnea?
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Common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, morning headaches, dry mouth or sore throat upon waking, and excessive daytime sleepiness. If you experience any of these symptoms (or notice a loved one experiencing them), it is important to consult with a sleep physician for an accurate diagnosis. Sleep studies can confirm the presence of sleep apnea and determine its severity.
How can a dentist help treat sleep apnea?
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Our experienced dentist can provide treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea using custom-made oral appliances. These devices are designed to keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw or preventing your tongue from blocking your airway during sleep. Oral appliance therapy is a comfortable, noninvasive option that can significantly reduce sleep apnea symptoms and improve your sleep quality and overall health.
Is an oral appliance comfortable to wear?
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Yes, oral appliances for sleep apnea are custom-made to fit your mouth comfortably. They are designed to be worn during sleep and are typically easy to adjust to after a short period. Many patients find them more comfortable and convenient than other treatment options, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which can be cumbersome and difficult to tolerate.
Can sleep apnea be cured with an oral appliance?
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While an oral appliance cannot cure sleep apnea, it can effectively manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency of breathing interruptions during sleep. By keeping your airway open, the appliance helps you achieve better sleep quality and minimizes the health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea. For many patients, this treatment leads to a significant improvement in their overall quality of life.
What areas do you serve?
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Dr. King provides sleep apnea treatment in Locust Grove, Georgia, and to patients in the surrounding areas, including East Griffin, Flovilla, Hampton, Jackson, Jenkinsburg, Jonesboro, Lovejoy, McDonough, Milner, Orchard Hill, Stockbridge, and Sunny Side, Georgia. Reach out today to schedule your consultation and learn how sleep apnea treatment can improve your quality of life!