Sleep apnea treatment is one of the numerous things you can do at Smile Dental Group in Burnaby, BC. Our experts will take a look at your case and recommend a specific procedure (or procedures) that could alleviate the problem.
A person who is suffering from this issue will have trouble breathing during sleep. A patient’s airways will be severely blocked, which might lead to numerous symptoms such as waking up during the night, sweating, snoring, and having increased heart rate. Not only does sleep apnea prevent a good night’s rest, but it can also lead to various medical complications.
Among others, a person will not get enough oxygen into the lungs. This is something that can lead to stroke. Chest and heart will work more intensely in an attempt to provide oxygen, which might also lead to heart complications.
By visiting Smile Dental Group in Burnaby, BC, you can find the root of the problem and address it in an attempt to prevent future medical issues.
What types of sleep apnea are there?
Obstructive sleep apnea: This is a problem that is usually caused by a blockage of soft tissue that is placed in the back of the throat. Obstructive sleep apnea can also be a result of some other obstructions and substance abuse.
Central sleep apnea: In the case of this specific type of apnea, the brain doesn’t send a signal to muscles that would tell muscles to breathe during the night.
There are several risk factors that increase the odds of apnea:
- It is most common among males above 40.
- The condition is common for overweight individuals.
- Large neck size, tongue, tonsils, and small jaw bone can all contribute.
- Hereditary characteristics.
- Various obstructions caused by allergies, deviated septum, and sinus issues.
What are the complications caused by sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can cause issues such as:
- Stroke
- Heart irregularities and complete heart failure
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Changes to mood and depression
- Morning headaches
- Bruxism
- Insomnia
On top of this, sleep apnea makes it harder for a person to function during the day. A patient might struggle with poor performance, whether at work or at school.
Looking for a CPAP Alternative in Burnaby, BC?
CPAP therapy is an effective treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea. However, depending on individual needs and clinical evaluation, other treatment options may also be appropriate. Some patients find the machine uncomfortable, noisy, or difficult to use consistently. If you’re looking for a CPAP alternative in Burnaby, our team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and discuss whether an oral appliance is an appropriate treatment option for your needs. When appropriate, we may also work alongside your physician or sleep specialist as part of your care.
Custom Oral Sleep Appliances
An oral sleep appliance is an individually designed device that gently repositions the jaw and helps keep the airway open during sleep. These appliances are compact, comfortable, and easy to travel with, making them a suitable option for some patients with less severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea. In addition to supporting healthier breathing during sleep, they may also help reduce snoring and improve sleep quality.
Snoring Treatment & Extended Health Benefits
Frequent snoring can disrupt sleep and may be a sign of an underlying sleep disorder. As a dentist specializing in snoring, we can assess your symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment, including a custom oral appliance for snoring when clinically indicated. Depending on your insurance plan, treatment and a custom appliance may be partially covered through your extended health benefits. If you are looking for a dentist in Burnaby, BC, our team is happy to answer your queries and help you understand your coverage options.
