Your Jaw Can Ruin Sleep
September 20, 2022
Snoring is a very common occurrence, and for most people, it poses no true problem to your health. Besides annoying your significant other, it is not currently affecting your health. But for others, they may experience what is known as sleep apnea. This is when the body momentarily stops breathing overnight.
As you might imagine, this can seriously harm the quality of your sleep. This condition is more common in men, but we see it in all shapes and sizes of patients. Not only can this really influence your ability to operate throughout the day, but you may also be in more danger of other health problems. Today, your Kansas City dentist explains this condition a bit, and also delves into how a night guard may be of great help for you!
Apnea, Explained
Sleep apnea refers to a condition where you cease breathing for periods of time while you sleep. This occurs primarily when the muscles of the throat begin to relax, which can obstruct your airway. The people who experience this may not even be aware that they are doing this, especially if they live alone. Often, their partners will become frightened by their actions at night!
New technologies with our smartphones have allowed the public to have a greater knowledge of their sleep patterns. There are many apps available on the market, and they can save you a ton of time over traditional methods of diagnosis. Previously, we would video tape patients in order to observe their behavior, but this is much more private. And it certainly takes much less time!
Mouthguards May Help
For those who do have knowledge of this condition, they may have images in their head. They may see large CPAP machines, strapped to your face at night. Understandably, many people opt to simply live with their condition than seeking treatment.
But we have made some fantastic advancements in the treatment of sleep apnea, and one simple and easy method is through the use of a custom mouthguard. This can adjust the angle of the jaw while you are unconscious, preventing yourself from blocking your airway. These can show improvement quite literally overnight, as manual motion can often bring speedy results.
Studies have shown that oxygen levels improve in apnea patients when they utilize a night guard. Also, blood pressure tends to decrease. And there are many benefits of an uninterrupted, full night of sleep. Our lives can be hectic, and too many of us are ignoring the importance sleep plays in our health.
Call Us Today for More Information!
If you have any further questions about how a custom mouthguard may help alleviate your apnea symptoms, or to schedule an appointment, please give Dr. Lucaci at Cosmetic Implant Dentistry Kansas City in Kansas City, MO a call today at (816)320-6414!