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According to the American Sleep Apnea Organization, an estimated 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. People with this disorder repeatedly stop breathing throughout the night while they are sleeping, which happens when their throat muscles relax and block airflow. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with this condition, the guide below will provide you with a helpful overview of the causes and symptoms of this disorder, as well as common sleep apnea treatment options.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

There are several reasons why a person may need sleep apnea treatment. The condition can run in families and can affect people born with thicker necks or narrower throats. One of the most common contributing factors is excess weight and obesity, which can lead to the formation of extra tissue around the mouth and throat.

Several dental conditions can cause sleep apnea, including misaligned teeth and tonsillitis. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can increase a person’s risk, as well.

What Are Some Common Symptoms?

Ohio Sleep ApneaPeople often do not even realize they have sleep apnea since the episodes occur while they are asleep. If you snore, struggle to breathe, or wake up gasping for air during the night, you may need sleep apnea treatment.

Other common symptoms include waking up with a headache or dry mouth and feeling tired and/or irritable throughout the day. You may even fall asleep during daytime activities.

What Are the Sleep Apnea Treatment Options?

Thankfully, there are several treatment options available to individuals who suffer from sleep apnea. Your doctor may suggest you use a CPAP machine while you sleep, which keeps your airways open by providing you with a continuous flow of air through a facial mask.

You may also be asked to visit your dentist, who can fit you for a special nighttime mouthpiece designed to push your lower jaw forward and keep your airways clear. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or abstaining from alcohol, may be recommended.

 

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and your doctor recommends visiting a dentist for treatment, contact Avon Dental Care in Avon, OH. For more than 20 years, this comfortable and compassionate office has provided adults and children with a wide range of cosmetic and general dentistry services, including TMJ and sleep apnea treatment, wisdom teeth extraction, Invisalign®, and dental implants. Visit their website to learn more and call (440) 937-2273 to schedule an appointment.

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