Do you or your partner snore? Snoring is not only irritating but also a common sign of sleep apnea. Although not every patient who snores has sleep apnea, it can indicate a bigger problem. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the mouth collapse, obstructing the airway. Over time, sleep apnea disrupts regular breathing during sleep and can lead to heart problems like heart disease, strokes, and even heart attacks. At Smiles by Mia, we want to help patients prevent further health issues with sleep apnea treatment in our FBurke, VA office.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Look out for these common symptoms of sleep apnea:
- Snoring
- Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
- Waking up with dry mouth
- Morning headaches
- Gasping for breath during sleep
- Difficulty staying asleep
Contact our office if you or a loved one have noticed these symptoms. Sleep apnea can worsen over time and increase the likelihood of developing heart problems. Additionally, patients who are male, over forty, overweight, or diabetic are more prone to sleep apnea.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Burke, VA
NightLase® therapy offers a non-invasive, safe option for patients with sleep apnea. This treatment uses a dental laser to apply heat to the soft mouth tissues in the back of the mouth. The laser tightens the tissue to open up the airway and lessen the effects of sleep apnea. Patients can receive full treatment with NightLase during three 20-minute sessions over six weeks.
Other benefits of NightLase include:
- No post-op pain or discomfort
- Quick and safe treatment
- Immediate results
- No anesthesia required
After treatment, patients can experience less snoring and better sleep. We recommend NightLase for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. Patients can use NightLase and oral appliances to treat their sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Untreated sleep apnea can have serious side effects. To learn more, read the answers to these commonly asked questions.
What are the health risks of untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It also increases the risk of daytime accidents due to excessive drowsiness. Additionally, sleep apnea can contribute to depression, anxiety, and memory problems. Proper treatment reduces these risks and improves overall health and well-being.
How do oral appliances treat sleep apnea?
Oral appliances, also called mandibular advancement devices (MADs), fit in the mouth like a retainer and reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. These devices are custom-made by dentists and are most effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea. Many patients find them more comfortable and convenient than CPAP machines. However, they may cause some users temporary jaw discomfort or bite changes.
Can sleep apnea be cured?
Sleep apnea cannot always be cured, but it can be effectively managed with treatment. Some people experience long-term improvement with weight loss, surgery, or lifestyle changes. However, many patients will need ongoing treatment, such as CPAP therapy or oral appliances, to keep symptoms under control. Regular follow-ups with a doctor can help ensure the best possible outcome.
How does alcohol affect sleep apnea?
Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep. This can make sleep apnea episodes more frequent and severe. Drinking alcohol before bed can also disrupt sleep quality and lead to more nighttime awakenings. People with sleep apnea should limit alcohol consumption, especially in the evening, to prevent worsening symptoms.
Can children have sleep apnea?
Children can have sleep apnea, most commonly due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Other risk factors include obesity, allergies, and genetic conditions like Down syndrome. Symptoms in children may include loud snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, and difficulty paying attention during the day. Treatment options for pediatric sleep apnea may include tonsil removal, weight management, and CPAP therapy in severe cases.
Can sleep apnea lead to weight gain?
Sleep apnea can contribute to weight gain by affecting metabolism and increasing hunger hormones. Poor sleep quality disrupts the body’s ability to regulate appetite, leading to cravings for high-calorie foods. Fatigue from sleep apnea also reduces motivation to exercise, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Treating sleep apnea can help restore energy levels and support weight management.
Treat Sleep Apnea Today
Do you or a loved one have sleep apnea symptoms? Call Smiles by Mia at (571) 789-1265. You can also schedule a dental appointment with us on our website. Please let us know at your next visit if you have questions about sleep apnea treatment or your current symptoms.