Do you snore frequently? Often, chronic snoring can be a symptom of a more serious sleep disorder. Over 22 million Americans currently suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. Sleep apnea not only leaves patients feeling exhausted, but may also increase their risk of developing serious medical complications. At The Silverstrom Group, we provide an array of treatment options to address common sleep disorders. In today’s blog, your Livingston dentists, Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom, explain the link between snoring and sleep apnea.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Patients with sleep apnea stop breathing multiple times during the night. This occurs when the soft tissue in the back of the throat partially, or often completely, blocks airflow. Once the brain becomes deprived of oxygen due to compromised breathing, it wakes the patient up to start breathing again. Patients endure this process hundreds of times a night.
Symptoms and Health Risks of OSA
Snoring is the most common symptom of sleep apnea. Snoring occurs when air is forced through blocked airways, vibrating the soft tissue. Other symptoms of sleep include:
· Daytime drowsiness
· Irritability
· Inability to focus at work or school
· Depression
Patients with OSA suffer an increased risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and depression. The resulting drowsiness also elevates the chances of falling asleep on the job or behind the wheel.
Treatment for Snoring and OSA
Your Livingston general dentists will diagnose the cause and severity of your sleep disorder before recommending treatment. Our sleep apnea solutions are comfortable and minimally invasive. In most cases, we will recommend an oral appliance. Similar to a mouth guard, this dental device repositions the jaw to allow easier breathing. With your airways open, you breathe freely and experience a reduction in sleep apnea symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Livingston General Dentists
Do you suffer from chronic snoring? If so, this may be a sign of sleep apnea. For more information contact your Livingston general dentists today. Drs. David and Gary Silverstrom offer the latest in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry to transform smiles. Contact The Silverstrom Group in Livingston, New Jersey by calling (973) 797-9345. The Silverstrom Group is located at 580 South Livingston Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey.
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