Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it often goes undiagnosed. At All About Smiles, we strive to educate our patients to understand the warning signs of sleep apnea, empowering them to take control of their oral health and overall well-being.
Sleep apnea symptoms can have significant implications for both oral and overall health. Taking a holistic approach to sleep apnea treatment in Wilmington can help our patients achieve better sleep, improved health, and elevated quality of life.
One of the most common warning signs of sleep apnea is loud and persistent snoring. While occasional snoring is normal, especially during times of illness or exhaustion, frequent and loud snoring accompanied by gasping or choking sounds may indicate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing the airway to become partially or completely blocked.
Another warning sign of sleep apnea is daytime fatigue and excessive sleepiness, even after a full night’s rest. People with severe sleep apnea often experience fragmented sleep patterns as their breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. This disruption prevents them from reaching the deeper stages of sleep necessary for feeling rested. Consequently, they may struggle to stay awake and alert during the day, leading to impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, and decreased productivity.
In addition to snoring and daytime fatigue, sleep apnea symptoms can profoundly impact oral health. Chronic oxygen deprivation during sleep can contribute to dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Furthermore, the negative pressure created by breathing pauses during sleep can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, causing jaw pain, headaches, and facial muscle tension.
Untreated sleep apnea negatively impacts our overall well-being, too. The intermittent drops in blood oxygen levels associated with sleep apnea trigger the release of stress hormones and inflammatory mediators, which can strain the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Sleep apnea has even been linked to metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance and weight gain.
With all that to consider, it’s no surprise that sleep apnea can also contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.
By recognizing the warning signs of sleep apnea and addressing this condition proactively, Drs. Liu and Yu strive to help patients improve their sleep quality, protect their oral and systemic health, and enhance their overall well-being. Holistic sleep apnea treatment involves collaboration between dentists, physicians, and sleep specialists to provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. From oral appliances that reposition the jaw to promote airway patency to lifestyle modifications and CPAP therapy, there are various options available to manage sleep apnea and improve sleep quality.
If you suspect you’re struggling with sleep apnea symptoms, take charge of your oral health today and book an appointment with All About Smiles for a more restful, healthier night’s sleep.
It all adds up to better health, smile, body, and spirit!