I have always been one of those people who loves to get out into the world and talk with other people, but a few years ago, I realized that I had to do something about my smile. My teeth were yellow and unattractive, and it was really discouraging to see how much different my smile was. I knew that I needed to get my teeth fixed, so I started working with a professional dentist to make things right. Within a few short months, my smile was completely transformed, and I knew that I owed it all to my dental professional. Check out this blog for more information about working with a dentist.
Harper Hughes
If you are waking up in the morning with a headache and feeling sleepy all day, it could be due toa condition called sleep apnea. This is a condition in which you stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds throughout the night. You come out of a deep sleep to start breathing again. If it sounds scary, that is because it is. Many people are not aware that they stop breathing at night until they exhibit other symptoms. Sometimes, your dentist will notice that your front teeth are worn or you have several cracked teeth. He or she will then ask questions concerning any other symptoms you may be experiencing such as snoring, inability to concentrate, and being tired all day long. Here is how the dentist can help.
Counseling
Your dentist will counsel you on a few ways you can prevent the sleep apnea from happening. He or she may suggest things like losing some weight or changing your sleep position. In addition, the dentist may suggest you attend a sleep study. This will determine how many times you stop breathing each night. Knowing the severity of your condition will help them plan your treatment.
Mandibular Advancement
If the problem is due to the lower jaw falling back and obstructing your airway while you sleep, your dentist will fit you with a device to keep it forward. The device resembles a set of orthodontic retainers that are connected in the back. They keep your lower jaw from collapsing your airway.
Tongue Retainer
Another device the dentist may suggest is a tongue retainer. This is helpful when the problem is your tongue falling back in your mouth. This is often the case when the symptoms include excessive snoring.
CPAP
If a mouth device is not going to work, you may be given a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to use while you sleep. You will wear a mask over your face that will keep a constant flow or air into your lungs.
If you or your dentist suspect that you are suffering from sleep apnea, it is time to take action. You do not need to spend your days tired, foggy-minded, and unable to concentrate. In addition, if you keep having the problem, it could lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, a stroke, or depression. Talk with your dentist and get a good night's sleep—your health depends on it.