Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that disrupts breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked. Central sleep apnea occurs when the lower airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep.
At The Dental Design Studios in Houston, Texas,
Dr. Hernandez offers multiple treatment options for sleep apnea in Houston, TX, as well as any other dental concerns you may have.
How Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea
Tooth grinding or bruxism is a common early indicator of sleep apnea. The dentist in Houston, TX, will evaluate your teeth for signs of eroded enamel surfaces.
Other common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness and difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
- Repeated episodes of abrupt awakening from sleep
Dr. Hernandez is specially trained to recommend optimal treatment strategies for sleep apnea and design oral appliances that can relieve your symptoms.
Contact us to learn more!
Symptoms and Effects of Sleep Apnea
Recurrent snoring, bruxism, daytime fatigue and drowsiness, getting out of bed with a dry mouth or sore throat, and morning migraines are the most common signs of sleep apnea. You should discuss with the dentist in 77055 if you experience any of these symptoms.
Because their sleep is interrupted, people who suffer from sleep apnea wake up frequently during the night. This reduces the quality of their sleep and causes difficulty concentrating during the day. Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or obesity are also associated with sleep apnea.
Is It Possible to Cure Apnea Using an Oral Appliance?
Dental devices or oral mandibular advancement appliances that prevent the tongue from obstructing the airway and extend the bottom jaw forward can be used for treating mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Custom Oral Appliance?
An OTC (over-the-counter) appliance may not relieve the symptoms and even exacerbate your sleep apnea. A custom-made mouthguard, on the other hand, fits you comfortably and can alleviate the effects of sleep apnea such as teeth grinding, migraines, and jaw spasms.
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Sleep Apnea
When it comes to managing sleep apnea in Houston, TX, making some lifestyle adjustments can go a long way in improving your quality of sleep and overall well-being.
- One key change is maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet. Excess weight can contribute to the narrowing of airways, exacerbating sleep apnea symptoms.
- Another important lifestyle change is avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime. These substances relax the muscles in the throat, making it more likely for breathing disruptions to occur during sleep.
- Additionally, establishing a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your body's internal clock and promote better rest.
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath before bed, can signal to your body that it's time to wind down for the night. Sleeping on your side instead of your back can also help prevent airway obstructions.
By incorporating these lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps towards managing sleep apnea effectively.
For more information, visit our office, The Dental Design Studios, at 8391 Westview Drive, Houston, TX 77055, or call (713) 468-5800.
