Sleep & Airway Dentistry
Sleep Breathing Disorders
Sleep breathing disorders are serious and can be life threatening if not diagnosed and treated appropriately... but where do they come from??
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We humans are designed to breathe through our nose. When we can't breathe through our nose because it is congested or too narrow, we open our mouths. Mouth breathing creates a whole slew of problems including a narrow, high vaulted palate (roof of the mouth). The palate creates the floor of the nose and a narrow and shallow nasal passage. Additionally, the airway is now smaller and the tongue lacks space to relax and often will occlude (block) the airway during our sleep... YIKES!!! Read on to see if you might have an airway and/or sleep issue and how we can help!
Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Breathing Disorder
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Snoring
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Waking with a sore/dry throat
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Choking or gasping during sleep
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Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (hypersomnia)
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Lack of energy during the day
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Morning Headaches
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Restless Sleep (insomnia)
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Forgetfulness
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Mood changes (irritability)
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Decreased sexual drive
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Waking to use the bathroom
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What may increase your risk of breathing disorders?
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Increased weight
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Neck circumference
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Gender: Males
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Increased Age
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Family history of sleep disorders
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Alcohol, sedative, or tranquilizer use
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Smoking
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Nasal Congestion
What happens if you don’t treat sleep breathing disorders?
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High Blood Pressure
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Type 2 Diabetes
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Metabolic Syndrome
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Liver Problems
Screening
During Screening we will ask you questions, determine risk, evaluate your airway with rhinometry and pharyngometry (super easy). Take the test below to see if you are at risk!
Home Sleep Test
We provide home sleep tests for patients at a low cost and work with a board certified sleep specialist to get you a diagnosis
Consultation
Once we have your home sleep test results complete, we consult with you on the findings and recommended treatment
Sleep Appliance Fabrication & delivery
If an oral sleep appliance is best we begin taking records and finding the position to maximize your airway. Once we receive your appliance from the lab, we deliver it and you start your way to a healthier you!
Why do we care?
