When you think of sleep apnoea, your dentist is probably not the first person you think of. However, some dentists are trained in sleep apnoea treatment and can help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need to achieve a safe and restful sleep.
Your dentist near Bendemeer offers consultations and can help you get to the bottom of your sleep apnoea by recommending a thorough evaluation with a sleep practitioner. In addition, we can provide support and sometimes alternative treatments to help ensure safe sleep.
What You Should Know about Sleep Apnoea
There are different types of sleep apnoea, but the obstructive variety is one of the most common. If you have this condition, you stop breathing several times throughout the night. Unfortunately, your body systems rely on oxygen through breathing to remain healthy. Over time, untreated sleep apnoea can mean high blood pressure, stroke, heart issues, and even kidney problems.
Noticeable signs of sleep apnea may include:
- Snoring
- Daytime sleepiness
- Mood changes
- Throat irritation
Treating obstructive sleep apnoea in North Tamworth involves keeping the airway open despite the obstruction.
Sleep Apnoea Treatment
Treatment may include a CPAP machine, which delivers a steady stream of air down the throat during sleep. The constant flow keeps the airway open. However, some patients have difficulty adjusting to this machine.
Fortunately, your dentist may have an alternative treatment through appliance therapy, also called continuous open airway therapy (COAT). COAT is an oral appliance customised to fit your mouth. It gently thrusts the jaw forward to keep the airway open. This therapy may be sufficient for your sleep apnoea, but an assessment is the only way to be sure.
Some patients opt for COAT only for travel because it is easier to pack away in a suitcase than the CPAP machine.
Are You Concerned about Sleep Apnoea?
If you have symptoms of sleep apnoea or have already been diagnosed, we encourage you to contact our dental office for an assessment.