Snoring is a common sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Although snoring can sometimes be an isolated problem, patients with additional sleep apnea symptoms, including insomnia, should visit a dental or medical professional for a diagnosis. Many patients who have sleep apnea may not recognize their symptoms as they may seem subtle at first. Sleep apnea blocks the airway, which can become dangerous and affect the health of the heart. It is important to schedule an appointment as soon as you discover sleep apnea symptoms in you or a loved one.
At Mac Dental, Dr. Jacob McLauchlin and Dr. Tyler Bare treat snoring and sleep apnea in their Nixa, MO office. Here, we will outline the common signs of sleep apnea as well as how we can reverse sleep apnea symptoms for patients to receive a more restful sleep.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
In addition to frequent snoring, patients with sleep apnea can experience:
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Daytime sleepiness
- Breathing through the mouth
- Loud breathing during sleep
- Chronic headaches
- Dry mouth
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
If you have noticed any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, please contact our office. We will help you determine the right solution to stop these symptoms and prevent future problems.
How to Treat Snoring
Oral appliance therapy can help open up the airway so patients can breathe comfortably during sleep. Similar to a mouthguard, an oral appliance is custom-made to fit the patient’s smile. Oral appliances are worn at night and prevent the soft tissues in the back of the mouth from collapsing. Compared to CPAP machines, oral appliances are more portable and less loud. However, they are best for patients who have mild symptoms of sleep apnea.
For patients with moderate to severe cases of sleep apnea, we will recommend a Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. CPAP machines use a mask or nosepiece placed on the face. Through a hose, the CPAP machine delivers air pressure, helping patients breathe during sleep. A CPAP machine is the best option for patients with more complex sleep apnea problems because it delivers air where it is needed.
Request a Dental Appointment
Do you or your partner frequently snore? You may be prone to developing sleep apnea over time. Schedule a consultation with our team online or call 417.202.0932. Please let us know if you have any questions about your treatment and we will be glad to help.