At Professional Dental in Utah, we know that a dentist plays a crucial role in the detection and treatment of this condition. Here, we’ll explain what sleep apnea is and how we can help. To schedule an evaluation, call us at (801) 785-8000.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

OSA occurs when throat muscles relax during sleep, causing the airway to narrow or close. This leads to breathing pauses that last for ten seconds or more. Your brain detects the lack of oxygen and briefly wakes you up to reopen the airway, often with a loud snort, gasp, or choking sound. These awakenings are so brief you might not remember them, but they can happen hundreds of times each night, fragmenting your sleep and leaving you fatigued.

Symptoms, Risks, and Complications

Though it often goes unnoticed, OSA can present with several signs:

• Loud, irregular snoring.
• Breathing pauses observed by a bed partner.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue.
• Waking up with a dry mouth or morning headache.
• Irritability or difficulty concentrating.

In addition to affecting quality of life, untreated OSA has been linked to serious health complications, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents due to daytime drowsiness.fee and tea, and tobacco use. While not a direct sign of damage, it affects the aesthetic appearance of your smile.

The Dentist’s Crucial Role in Sleep Apnea

It may seem surprising, but your dentist plays a crucial role in the fight against sleep apnea. You might be asking, “What does my dentist have to do with this?” The answer is, a lot! Dentists are in a unique position to be the first healthcare professionals to identify common risk factors and signs of OSA. This is because a thorough dental exam is about more than just checking for cavities; it’s a comprehensive look at the anatomy of your mouth, jaw, and throat.

During a routine visit, your dentist is trained to spot several key indicators that you might be at risk for sleep apnea:

Oral Signs of Stress: Grinding your teeth, known as bruxism, is a common sign of the stress your body is under when it’s constantly struggling to breathe at night. Your dentist can spot the worn-down surfaces on your teeth, which can be a strong indicator of a sleep breathing disorder.

Oral and Jaw Anatomy: A dentist will examine your oral and craniofacial structures. They can easily identify anatomical features that may contribute to airway obstruction, such as a large tongue, enlarged tonsils, a high or narrow palate, or a small, set-back jaw (retrognathia). These physical characteristics can reduce the space for airflow, increasing the likelihood of an airway collapse during sleep.

If we find these or other signs during your check-up, we won’t diagnose you on the spot. Instead, our role is to act as a crucial link in your healthcare team. We will refer you to a sleep physician for a formal diagnosis through a sleep study. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, we can work collaboratively with your physician to provide an effective, non-invasive treatment solution.

Dental Treatment for Sleep Apnea

For mild to moderate cases of OSA, or for patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine, one treatment option is oral appliance therapy. These custom-made devices are worn at night to reposition your jaw or tongue, keeping your airway open so you can breathe without interruption.

At Professional Dental, we can fabricate and fit these appliances to ensure they are comfortable and effective, helping you improve your sleep quality and overall health.If you or your partner snores, or if you feel tired no matter how much you sleep, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. Call us today at (801) 785-8000 for a consultation. Your health and your sleep are our priority.