Sleep apnea disrupts the body's natural sleep cycles, which causes daytime fatigue and headaches. The condition can also take a toll on your oral health, with symptoms like dry mouth and gum disease.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, Dr. Hardt and Dr. Cruz can provide treatment to keep the disorder in check.
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. The pauses, known as apneas, can occur multiple times throughout the night, disrupting normal sleep patterns.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
OSA is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep.
CSA involves the central nervous system and occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center.
A combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Several factors increase the risk of developing sleep apnea, including:
After assessing your health and looking at your medical history, we may recommend one of the following treatments:
Weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and changing sleep position can sometimes alleviate sleep apnea symptoms.
CPAP machines deliver a steady stream of air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, preventing the airway from collapsing during sleep.
Dr. Hardt can make custom dental devices that help keep your airways open by adjusting the position of your jaw and tongue.
Sometimes, Dr. Hardt may recommend surgical procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), which involves removing excess tissue at the back of your throat to clear obstructions in your airway.
Another option is maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), where the jaw is repositioned to create more space in the airway and improve breathing during sleep.
If you think you have sleep apnea, contact Dr. Richard Hardt, DDS, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment options. Better sleep and improved overall health await you. Schedule your appointment today!
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