If you are waking up not feeling rested, it is possible that you are suffering from sleep apnea. In the past it was thought that sleep apnea occurred mainly in men and among those who are overweight, but more and more research is showing that petite females (with small neck circumference) are at high risk for sleep apnea as well. Dr. Parsa likes to investigate and explore this area, as it may not always come up with your medical doctor.
How do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea?
The definitive diagnosis of sleep apnea is determined through a sleep study. This must be done at a sleep clinic through the referral of your doctor. However, there are signs and symptoms that suggest that you might be suffering from sleep apnea. This is an area that Dr. Parsa could discuss with you if you have suspicions that you are affected by it.
Our goal at Yankee Valley Dental is to attend to all your dental needs.
If you want to explore oral appliance therapy or simply want to find out more about sleep apnea, contact Yankee Valley Dental for Airdrie Sleep Apnea Care. Dr. Parsa will discuss the topic with you and see if you are a good candidate for getting a sleep test to find a definitive answer.
What You Need to Know
Sleep Apnea is a serious condition and has been associated not only with decreased quality of life, but also a shortened life expectancy. Patients are also at higher risk for increased blood pressure, cardiac conditions such as heart attacks, depression, and even diabetes. With successful treatment (through a mouth appliance or a CPAP machine) patients should see a significant improvement in their energy levels.
The gold standard for treatment of sleep apnea is the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy (CPAP machine). For patients who can tolerate the CPAP machine, it can have life-changing results. However, not everyone can tolerate the CPAP machine and that’s where oral appliance therapy can help. The appliance is similar to a sports mouth guard, but worn on the top and bottom jaw. It works by positioning the lower jaw forward to reduce obstruct and open the airway. Not only will you get better sleep, your partner will be grateful as this reduces snoring!
The sleep appliance opens the airway by positioning the lower jaw forward. Majority of patients don’t have their back teeth touching when the lower jaw is forward. Teeth are funny in that they move when they are not contacting one another. Hence the short answer is that it’s entirely possible for the sleep appliance to permanently change the position of your teeth. Dr. Parsa will discuss this risk with you.
Leave us a review!
