Is Sleep Apnea Keeping You Up at Night? Your Dentist Can Help!
We’ve all experienced a restless night of sleep now and then, but for those with sleep apnea, every night can be a struggle. If you’re constantly feeling tired, irritable, or unfocused during the day, sleep apnea might be the culprit. But did you know that your dentist can play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating this common sleep disorder? At Smile Reston Heights, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve not just better oral health, but better overall health and wellbeing.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring (though that’s often a telltale sign). Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood changes
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke.
How Can Your Dentist Help with Sleep Apnea?
You might be wondering, “What does my dentist have to do with my sleep?” As it turns out, quite a lot! Dentists are often the first healthcare professionals to spot signs of sleep apnea. During your regular check-ups, Dr. Nitin Rajput at Smile Reston Heights doesn’t just examine your teeth and gums — he also looks for signs that might indicate sleep apnea, such as:
• Worn tooth surfaces (from grinding)
• A small jaw or recessed chin
• Redness in the throat
• Scalloped edges on the tongue
If Dr. Rajput suspects you might have sleep apnea, he can refer you to a sleep specialist for a definitive diagnosis. But that’s not where your dentist’s role ends!
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options at Your Dentist’s Office
While the gold standard for severe sleep apnea treatment is often a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, many patients find these devices uncomfortable or difficult to use. That’s where your dentist comes in.
For mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, or for those who can’t tolerate CPAP, dental appliances can be an effective apnea treatment option. These custom-made devices, similar to mouthguards, work by repositioning your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open while you sleep.
At Smile Reston Heights, we offer several types of oral appliances for sleep apnea, including:
1. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These reposition your lower jaw slightly forward, helping to keep your airway open.
2. Tongue Retaining Devices: These hold your tongue in a forward position to prevent it from blocking your airway.
Dr. Rajput will work closely with you to determine which device is best suited for your specific needs. These appliances are not only effective but also comfortable and easy to use, making them an excellent alternative for many sleep apnea sufferers.
Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of restful nights and energetic days. If you suspect you might be suffering from this condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Smile Reston Heights. We’re here to help you breathe easier and sleep better. Give us a call at 703-345-1100 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rajput. Together, we can work towards a solution that will have you waking up refreshed and ready to face the day!
The post Sleep Apnea: How Your Dentist Can Help You Rest Easy first appeared on Smile Reston Heights.