Sleep Apnea: How Your Dentist Can Help You Rest Easy
Do you find yourself constantly tired during the day, even after what you thought was a full night’s sleep? You might be experiencing sleep apnea, a common but serious sleep disorder. At Advocate Dental of Palatine, we’re not just concerned with your oral health — we care about your overall well-being, including how well you sleep at night.
Recognizing the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring (though that’s often a telltale sign). Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes or irritability
• Gasping or choking during sleep (often reported by a partner)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to have a chat with a healthcare professional — and your dentist might be the perfect place to start.
Your Dentist: An Unexpected Ally in Sleep Apnea Treatment
You might be wondering, “What does my dentist have to do with my sleep?” As it turns out, quite a lot! At Advocate Dental of Palatine, Dr. George Skoog is trained to recognize the signs of sleep apnea and can play a crucial role in your diagnosis and treatment.
Dentists are often the first to notice signs of sleep apnea during routine check-ups. We might spot wear patterns on your teeth that indicate grinding (a common symptom of sleep apnea) or notice changes in your oral tissues that suggest mouth breathing during sleep.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options at Your Dental Office
While a sleep study is typically needed for an official diagnosis, your dentist can offer several treatment options once sleep apnea is confirmed:
1. Oral Appliance Therapy: This is often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea. We can create a custom-fitted oral appliance that repositions your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep.
2. Lifestyle Modifications: We can provide guidance on lifestyle changes that may help, such as weight loss, positional therapy, or avoiding alcohol before bed.
3. Referrals: If necessary, we can refer you to a sleep specialist for more advanced treatment options, such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy.
Remember, untreated sleep apnea isn’t just about poor sleep — it can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. That’s why it’s crucial to address these symptoms early.
At Advocate Dental of Palatine, we’re committed to helping you achieve not just a healthy smile, but also a good night’s sleep. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, don’t wait. Give us a call at 847-232-0585 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Skoog. Together, we can explore your symptoms and discuss potential apnea treatment options to help you rest easy and wake up refreshed.
Your journey to better sleep might just start in the dentist’s chair!
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