Rest Easy with Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment

Oral Splint

Anyone who snores knows that it can be a strain on relationships. But has your spouse ever noticed you stop breathing periodically during the night? Do you feel drowsy during the day, like you never get enough sleep? These symptoms may indicate a serious but treatable condition called sleep apnea.

Those who suffer from this breathing disorder pause in their breathing for periods of 10 seconds or longer during sleep. Airflow stops when oral tissues in the back of the throat collapse. When oxygen levels fall too far, the brain signals the body to act, and the body will awaken enough to restart breathing. These episodes occur many times during the night, and most people with sleep apnea aren’t aware of them.

Signs that you might have sleep apnea include snoring and persistent fatigue. But those aren’t the only issues sleep apnea patients endure. A good night’s sleep might be more important to your body than you realize. Left untreated, sleep apnea contributes to problems like high blood pressure, heart attacks, and even an increased risk of strokes.
As experienced general and restorative dentists, Dr. Arnold, Dr. Shideler, and Dr. Wargo are well-informed and up-to-date on the latest sleep apnea treatments. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, one of our dentists can prescribe a nightguard, or oral appliance, for use when you sleep. An oral appliance positions the jaw forward to keep the airway open throughout the night. Even if you don’t have sleep apnea, a nightguard can effectively treat chronic snoring. Our doctors most often use the SomnoDent MAS (mandibular advancement splint) to treat sleep apnea and snoring.

If you would like to be evaluated for sleep apnea, or if you’ve been diagnosed and are interested in an oral appliance, start by calling one of our convenient locations to schedule an appointment with Dr. Arnold, Dr. Shideler, or Dr. Wargo. Our dentists serve patients from Chesterton and surrounding areas. Reclaim the deep, restorative sleep you need for whole-body health.