Canal Side Family Dental is a 42 North Dental Care, PLLC practice and is owned and operated by dentists Dr. Samuel Shames, DDM. and Dr. Ronald Weissman, DDM. Gentle Dental is supported by 42 North Dental, LLC, a dental support organization that provides non-clinical administrative and business support services to the practice. 42 North Dental, LLC does not own or operate the dental practice or employ dentists to provide dental services. Find more information about 42 North Dental, LLC and the dental practices it supports at 42northdental.com.
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders; millions of people have been diagnosed with it, and millions more may be unaware that they have it! Sadly, though, this serious condition is still widely misunderstood. Would you like to enhance your knowledge of sleep apnea? Here are some important facts that might surprise you:
Sleep Apnea Can Affect Anyone
Sleep apnea is most prevalent among certain groups, including obese individuals and seniors. However, it is important to remember that anyone can develop this condition, regardless of their age, weight, gender, or lifestyle choices. If you ever notice that you are not benefiting from your nightly rest like you used to, it would be good to get screened for sleep apnea!
There Are Different Types of Sleep Apnea
When people talk about sleep apnea, they are usually referring to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has more victims than any other type of sleep apnea. It occurs when tissues in the throat block the free flow of air. Some people have central sleep apnea (CSA), which happens when the brain does not send the right breathing signals to the rest of the body. A handful of people even have mixed or combined sleep apnea, which has characteristics of both OSA and CSA.
You Might Stop Breathing Hundreds of Times in a Single Night
People with mild sleep apnea may stop breathing (or have periods of reduced breathing) 5 – 15 times per hour. Moderate sleep apnea sufferers experience 16 – 30 episodes an hour, whereas people with severe OSA may stop breathing more than 30 times an hour. That can amount to hundreds of episodes in a single night!
Sleep Apnea Can Contribute to Early Death
While sleep apnea might seem like a mere annoyance, it can actually lead to deadly consequences. When your body is not getting the oxygen it needs, that places stress on your entire system. People with OSA are at a heightened risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.
Dentists Can Treat Sleep Apnea
The most common way to treat OSA is a CPAP machine, but that is not the only option! Many people find that a custom oral appliance from their dentist is more convenient and comfortable than CPAP therapy. The device slightly repositions the lower jaw in order to keep the airway open. Most people with mild to moderate OSA are excellent candidates for oral appliance therapy.
Has this blog post taught you anything new about sleep apnea? Share it with your friends so they can also expand their knowledge!
Meet the Practice
At Canal Side Family Dental, our team is committed to providing a broad range of top-quality services to our community, including sleep apnea treatment for patients from Bourne and the surrounding areas. If you have been diagnosed with OSA and want to learn more about this treatment option, we will be happy to answer your questions. Get in touch with our Buzzards Bay office at 508-375-3149.