How your dentist in Atchison, Kansas can treat sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that can have profound effects on your body. It is caused by the tissue at the back of your throat
relaxing and blocking your airway while you sleep. Oxygen levels are reduced, resulting in a lack of oxygen to your vital organs, including your heart and your brain.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, between 18 to 20 million adults are currently diagnosed with sleep apnea in the United States. Fortunately, there are several effective devices that can help treat the condition. Dr. Amish Patel at Atchison Family Dentistry in Atchison, KS, offers one of the most effective, comfortable, and user-friendly devices: the Oral Mandibular Advancement Appliance. Read on to learn how we can help with your sleep apnea!
More about Sleep Apnea
So, why treat sleep apnea? Well, because the constant oxygen reduction to your vital organs causes lasting harmful effects, such as increasing your risk of a stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, memory impairment, and diabetes.
There are a few noticeable signs and symptoms that point to sleep apnea, including chronic loud snoring, suddenly waking up with a gasping, choking sensation, chronic sore throat, sleepiness throughout the day, and a general inability to concentrate.
The Continuous Positive Air Pressure machine (aka CPAP) is a common treatment for sleep apnea. The device covers your mouth and nose to deliver a continuous flow of oxygen during the night. However, many people find CPAP uncomfortable, constricting, and difficult to keep clean. As a result, many patients discontinue their CPAP treatment prematurely.
A much better alternative to CPAP is the Oral Mandibular Advancement Appliance, offered by dentists such as Dr. Patel. This appliance works by holding your lower jaw forward while you sleep, keeping your airway open throughout the night. Many people prefer the Oral Mandibular Advancement Appliance because it is:
- Comfortable, with no hoses or constricting masks, just a simple dental appliance that you wear at night
- Convenient, because it’s small and portable, and can be taken anywhere easily
- Easy to maintain, because you simply clean it by soaking
If you think that you may have sleep apnea, don’t delay getting treatment. Call Dr. Amish Patel at Atchison Family Dentistry in Atchison, KS, today at (816) 678-4194!