Everybody deserves to get enough rest; it is essential in performing the daily activities efficiently and effectively. But some people experience sleep disruptions that occur multiple times a night, and these cause the person to be sleepy, irritable, and unproductive. If the issue is recurring the problem may be Sleep Apnea, and this condition should not be taken lightly. Chesterfield Hilltown Dental knows that it is essential to treat this condition, which is why we specialize in custom-made oral appliances for Sleep Apnea Treatment.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Apnea is a type of a severe sleeping disorder that occurs when a patient’s breath is interrupted or repeatedly pauses during sleep. Untreated sleep apnea can occur multiple times a night that causes the pause to last for a few seconds to a few minutes. It can also be associated with snoring or snorting sounds. The pauses in breathing, snoring, or snorting sounds can cause the patient to wake up multiple times a night. The event of sleep apnea can occur from 5 to 100 times an hour which could be very harmful to the patient’s health.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

It is the most common type of apnea which is usually associated with loud snoring and even snorting sounds. The blockage of the airway characterizes the condition during sleep caused by the collapsed soft-tissue at the back of the throat. Once the airway is blocked, it can cause the patient to snore or wake up repeatedly every time it occurs. Compared to the other type of apnea, Obstructive Sleep Apnea is typically associated with loud snoring.

Harm Brought by Sleep Apnea

Oxygen is important to allow proper brain function and blood circulation. Since sleep apnea can cause the blockage of the airway, it can cause harm to the brain cells that can be damaged without the sufficient supply of oxygen. It also lessens the oxygen supply to the lungs which slow a person’s heartbeat, and once the patient starts breathing, the heart will then beat frantically. The cycle will continue multiple times a night which can be very harmful to the patient’s overall health.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can be treated with the use of custom-made oral appliances recommended by our dentist to help each patient. It includes a mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer that can be worn during sleep to prevent the tissues from collapsing and make sure that the airways are kept open for a more comfortable sleep and proper breathing for a healthier mind and body.