For those who experience obstructive sleep apnea a restful night’s sleep can be difficult, frustrating, and for some, even impossible. Perhaps more aggravating than not being able to achieve sufficient rest is experiencing some of the uncomfortable, unnerving, and unpredictable symptoms and side effects of obstructive sleep apnea. At Limestone Dental Associates, Dr. David Nibouar and Dr. Matt Baran help patients to pinpoint the source and cause of sleeping disorders in addition to treating obstructive sleep apnea symptoms.
Seven Common Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Although frequent, loud snoring is most often associated with a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, there are additional factors that may indicate this common disorder. In fact, sleep apnea is so common that an estimated 22-million Americans suffer from the condition—80% of whom experience a moderate to severe case—often that has yet to be diagnosed.
Thankfully, there are treatment options available for obstructive sleep apnea. As of 2017, a policy deemed that dentists are the chosen healthcare providers to address Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) as a result of their expertise and knowledge of Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders (SRBDs).
In order to establish an obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis, Dr. Nibouar and Dr. Baran will conduct a full exam, assess present and past medical history, and discuss any symptoms you may exhibit, including:
Loud snoring on a consistent basis- Frequent interrupted sleep from choking and gasping for air
- Excessive sleep deprivation, resulting in extreme fatigue during waking hours
- Consistent dry mouth, sore throat, and headaches when waking
- Ongoing instances of the absence of breathing or changes in breathing
- Continual issues with concentration, mood stability, motor skills and memory
- Repeated problems associated with libido
Although symptoms and causes of obstructive sleep apnea will vary depending on gender, age, and other circumstances, a narrowed airway, high blood pressure, smoking, asthma, and a family history of sleep apnea may increase the likelihood of an individual developing obstructive sleep apnea.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you’re experiencing any of the issues listed above, you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea complications. If it’s not addressed or treated in a timely manner obstructive sleep apnea can lead to serious problems, which can include:
- Diabetes
- Heart Attack
- Cancer
- Cognitive Disorders
- Behavioral Disorders
- Glaucoma
At Limestone Dental Associates, we offer obstructive sleep apnea treatment with the two-piece TAP 3 dental appliance. The TAP 3 device gently pushes the jaw forward to ensure the airway is kept open during sleep. Many patients prefer the TAP 3 to other more primitive obstructive sleep apnea solutions such as the CPAP machine, medication, or surgery. As an added advantage, the TAP 3 has a 95% success rate in improving breathing and snoring.
If you’re concerned that you may be experiencing symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and would like to schedule an appointment, our Limestone Dental team is here to help. Simply click here or call us now at 302-307-6407.