Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition that occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the mouth collapse. Because this happens during sleep, many patients may not realize that they have sleep apnea. However, snoring and waking up frequently at night are common markers of this condition. Dr. Michael Courter treats patients who have sleep apnea in his North Midland, TX dental office. Treating sleep apnea can restore health to patients and also prevent future health problems.
Sometimes patients who have sleep apnea are more at risk of developing heart problems. Problems like strokes, diabetes, and even heart attacks are common. This is because breathing erratically can disrupt the flow of oxygen through the bloodstream. In addition to treating sleep apnea, Dr. Courter also provides restorative dentistry services in Midland, TX.
Common Risk Factors and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Multiple risk factors can increase a patient’s chance of developing sleep apnea. Common risk factors for sleep apnea include smoking and anatomical abnormalities of the upper airway, as well as:
- Obesity, or overweight
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Male
- Over forty
- Those with heart problems
- Frequent snorers
Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Snoring
- Difficulty breathing
- Insomnia
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
If you think you or someone you know may have sleep apnea, tou need to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Contact our office if you’ve already noticed one or more of these signs of sleep apnea.
We can help you discover your treatment options during a consultation. Most patients are candidates for an oral appliance. Keep reading to learn more about possible treatment options for you.
How to Treat Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have a major impact on your health and quality of life. Fortunately, there are dental treatments for sleep apnea that can help you get back to a healthy night’s sleep. Dr. Courter provides oral appliances to treat mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
Custom oral appliances are alternative devices to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Machines (CPAP). Oral devices are more portable and comfortable for patients to use. Patients no longer have to deal with bulky and loud CPAP machines to treat their sleep apnea.
To create oral appliances for his patients, Dr. Courter will first take dental impressions of their teeth. We will send these impressions to our dental lab to fabricate the custom-fit device. At your second appointment, our dentist will fit you with the new sleep apnea appliance. He’ll make sure it fits comfortably before you leave our office.
For the appliance to be effective, all you have to do is simply wear it overnight while you sleep. Oral appliances keep the airway open so you can breathe easily without restrictions. They’re a great option for patients who want to improve their sleep apnea but cannot tolerate using a CPAP machine.
Naturally Treat Sleep Apnea at Home
For those patients that have light and unobtrusive symptoms, you can do things at home to alleviate your sleep apnea issues. We recommend following these tips in addition to professional care. Consider these tips from our team:
- Keep a Healthy Weight: Losing weight through healthy eating and regular exercise can make a big difference. Extra weight around your neck and throat can block your airways and make sleep apnea worse.
- Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives Before Bed: Drinking alcohol or taking sedatives before you sleep can relax the muscles in your throat too much. This can cause your airway to collapse while you sleep and make your symptoms worse.
- Sleep on Your Side and Elevate Your Head: Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue and soft tissues to block your airway. Try sleeping on your side instead. You can also use a wedge pillow or raise the head of your bed a little to help keep your airway open.
- Stick to a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. A consistent schedule helps your body sleep better. Also, create a relaxing bedtime routine and make your bedroom a calm, quiet, and dark space.
- Stay Hydrated: Not drinking enough water during the day can make your sleep apnea symptoms worse. Dry airways are more likely to become irritated and swollen, which can make it harder to breathe at night. Drink
- Try Nasal Strips or a Nasal Dilator: Nasal strips or dilators can help keep your nasal passages open while you sleep. They’re easy to use and can help you breathe more easily through your nose.
- Use a Humidifier in Your Bedroom: Dry air can irritate your nose and throat. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and can help soothe your airways. Using a humidifier in the colder months can make it easier to breathe while you sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about sleep apnea? We’re here to help. Read answers to common questions about sleep apnea treatment in our Midland, TX, dentist office.
Can untreated sleep apnea affect my heart or blood pressure long-term?
Yes, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious cardiovascular problems. It increases the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, heart attacks, and strokes over time. The repeated drop in oxygen levels during sleep puts stress on the heart. Managing sleep apnea early can significantly reduce these long-term health risks.
Are children or teenagers at risk of developing sleep apnea?
Yes, sleep apnea can affect children and teens, especially if they have enlarged tonsils, obesity, or nasal allergies. Symptoms may include loud snoring, restless sleep, or daytime tiredness. Unlike adults, children may also show behavioral issues or poor school performance. Early evaluation can help prevent complications.
Does grinding my teeth at night mean I have sleep apnea, too?
Not always, but teeth grinding (bruxism) can be a sign of sleep apnea. Some patients unconsciously clench or grind their teeth during brief moments of breathing interruption. If you grind your teeth and feel tired during the day or snore at night, it’s worth discussing sleep apnea testing with your provider.
How often should I replace or check my oral appliance?
Most oral sleep appliances should be checked at least once a year by our dentist or sleep specialist. They may last several years with good care, but wear and tear can reduce their effectiveness. You should schedule a checkup sooner if you notice discomfort or if your symptoms return.
Can allergies or nasal congestion make sleep apnea worse?
Yes, nasal congestion from allergies or sinus issues can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Blocked airways make it harder to breathe normally during sleep, increasing apneic events. Treating the underlying nasal issues may help improve sleep quality and reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
How can I tell the difference between regular snoring and sleep apnea?
Snoring alone doesn’t always mean you have sleep apnea, but loud, frequent snoring with gasping, pauses in breathing, or daytime fatigue are strong indicators. Sleep apnea also tends to cause restless sleep and frequent nighttime awakenings. A sleep study is the best way to confirm the diagnosis.
Schedule a Consultation
While natural treatments may alleviate some symptoms, you should still consult with a dentist for a proper diagnosis. Request a dental consultation today to get a restful night of sleep with our sleep apnea treatment. Call Dr. Courter for a consultation at 432-287-9531. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Courter and his team on our website.