How to Treat Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can be a serious, life-threatening condition if left untreated. Sleep apnea is a common condition that can cause you to stop breathing as you sleep. Therefore, as you sleep, your oxygen levels drop, which can cause many other problems throughout your body. Some of these problems include high blood pressure, stroke, depression, irritability, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

The good news is treatments are always available. The first step to overcoming sleep apnea begins with talking to your dentist. Your dentist will be able to discover how serious your condition is and guide you on the path of the correct treatment.

Treatments for sleep apnea include:

• Dental Devices: In some cases, your dentist might give you a dental device, which will be like a mouth guard appliance that will keep the airway open while you sleep.
• Treatment at home: There are many cases where sleep apnea is very mild. In these situations, your dentist may recommend simple things you can do at home. These things include avoiding sleeping pills, avoiding alcohol, losing weight, and quitting smoking.
• CPAP: Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, is a common treatment that involves covering your nose and mouth with a small mask. The mask delivers constant air flow, allowing the airway to remain open.
• Surgery: In extreme cases, your dentist may recommend surgery to treat your sleep apnea.

If you would like to talk to your dentist about your condition, please call our office at 269-964-7660. Let us help you receive the best care you can when it comes to overcoming this condition. So, call us today and begin your treatment.