Can a Visit to the Dentist Improve Your Sleep Troubles?
Do you constantly hear from loved ones that you snore too loudly? Or do you often awake in the morning feeling unrested and grumpy? If you answered yes, or this sounds like a family member, sleep apnea may be a concern for you. Sleep apnea is a common yet very dangerous sleeping condition in which patients stop breathing during times of sleep. Typically, sleep apnea is caused by a restricted airway while sleeping. It can be caused by the placement of the tongue, the dental arch and position of the teeth, and even from being overweight.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
One of the most common and well known symptoms of sleep apnea is snoring. You may be surprised to learn there are a number of symptoms to be on the lookout for to detect if you or a loved one may be experiencing sleep apnea:
Morning headaches
Irritability that lasts throughout the day
Short attention span and difficulty thinking clearly
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Waking with a dry throat or mouth
Trouble falling asleep and staying asleep
Waking gasping for air
You need sleep to recharge your body and your brain. Sleep apnea is a danger to your overall health if symptoms remain undiagnosed and untreated. The constant cycle of interrupted sleep can begin to affect your everyday life. Your job performance may suffer, you may lose your temper easily and treat your family differently, and you may fall asleep at inopportune times. More importantly, it can cause serious complications to your overall health. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to heart issues such as high blood pressure.
Ways to Treat Sleep Apnea
Dr. Krochak has great success in treating patients with sleep apnea using a corrective oral appliance. It is also recommended to evaluate your overall health, including how you eat and how much you exercise. Add some extra movement to your day by doing light exercise such as a brisk walk. Be mindful not to over consume caffeine or alcohol, especially close to bedtime.
Not all dentists have the knowledge and proper training to effectively treat patients with sleep apnea. For more information, you can contact Dr. Michael Krochak at:
drk@nycsmilespacom
NYC Smile Spa
30 E. 60th St., Rm 1201
New York, NY 10022
(212) 838-2900
