Some dentists, like Dr. Ashwini Bhave of Bay Area Dental Specialists, have the training, skills and experience necessary to treat your sleep apnea. It is important to understand the seriousness of sleep apnea to fully appreciate why a dentist like Dr. Bhave should be in charge of your sleep apnea treatment. This article will discuss sleep apnea as well as the treatment options that Dr. Bhave offers patients.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when a person either can’t breathe normally while sleeping or completely stops breathing while they are sleeping. These breathing interruptions can occur many times during the night, causing other health issues.
There are three types of sleep apnea: central, obstructive and complex. The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea.
Symptoms of sleep apnea can vary by patient but may include the following:
- Loud snoring
- Waking up with a very sore or dry throat
- Gasping or choking during sleep (this may wake the patient up or be reported by another person)
- Restless sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue
- Irritability from a lack of sleep (or lack of quality sleep)
- Difficulty concentrating
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to long-term health consequences. Sleep apnea can impact nearly every part of the body, including your brain, metabolism and overall health and well-being.
You may not be the only person that experiences the negative effects of sleep apnea. If your sleep disturbances or snoring keep others awake, then they may also suffer from sleep deprivation and the corresponding negative effects.
Dentists Can Treat Sleep Apnea
The traditional treatment for sleep apnea has involved a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. The CPAP machine fits over a patient’s nose and mouth while they sleep and provides a steady flow of air. This opens the patient’s airway. While effective, CPAP machines are also loud, bulky and require regular cleaning that can be time-consuming.
Oral appliance therapy is a functional and personalized treatment for sleep apnea. Dr. Bhave is a knowledgeable dentist who knows how to create custom-fitted oral appliances for her patients. Custom-fitted oral appliances are both comfortable and safe for patients.
The oral appliance is similar to a mouth guard. It consists of two connected trays: one fits over your upper teeth, and one fits over your lower teeth. The device helps to reposition your jaw so that your airway remains open while you sleep. This makes breathing easier and can result in quality sleep and other health benefits.
Why Should I Choose Dr. Bhave for My Sleep Apnea Treatment Needs?
Dr. Bhave is an experienced dental professional who focuses on the unique needs of each and every patient. She understands the significance of sleep apnea treatment to a patient’s overall health and well-being. To learn how Dr. Bhave can treat your sleep apnea, please schedule an appointment at our San Jose dental office.