More and more dentists and dental professionals are making airway health a significant part of their practices. We are learning that sleep apnea affects a great number of people, and many do not even realize they have it. It affects much more than just sleep. Sleep apnea influences dentistry, cardiovascular health, weight management, relationships, mental health, and even workplace safety.
Here are some things about sleep apnea that everyone should know:
• Snoring is a common symptom, but not everyone with sleep apnea snores.
• In some cases, people literally stop breathing dozens or even hundreds of times per night.
• Many patients do not feel “sleepy,” but they do feel irritable, foggy, anxious, or depressed.
• Untreated sleep apnea is strongly associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, and an increased risk of dementia.
• Athletes and thin people can be affected, along with those who are overweight.
• Children can suffer from sleep apnea as well.
• CPAP machines are not the only treatment option.
Let me expound on the association between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease. When you stop breathing, your body becomes oxygen deprived. Stress hormones are released, and large pressure swings occur inside the chest. When this happens repeatedly, night after night, blood vessels can become damaged and lose elasticity.
As more research is conducted in this area of medicine, we are discovering stronger correlations between sleep apnea and other health conditions. We are also learning that it affects far more than just your energy level throughout the day.
Orthodontists are known for straightening teeth, but their work can go far beyond tooth position. They are growth experts, and some have received additional training that helps them recognize and promote proper jaw size and positioning so airway management will be less of an issue for their patients in the future.
This is important because many children who exhibit symptoms of ADHD are simply not breathing well. With minimally invasive treatment and training, their quality of life could be greatly enhanced.
There are two basic types of sleep apnea: central and obstructive.
Central sleep apnea is less common (about 10 percent of cases) and occurs when the brain stops sending signals to breathe. In these cases, a device monitors breathing patterns and automatically applies pressurized oxygen when needed.
Obstructive sleep apnea accounts for the majority of cases. It occurs when the body relaxes, muscles lose tone, and the airway becomes blocked. CPAP machines are often prescribed, but other treatment options are available.
Anterior positioning devices can be made by nearly all dentists. These appliances connect the upper and lower jaws so the lower jaw maintains a forward position. This helps prevent it from falling backward and collapsing the airway. Studies show that anterior positioning devices can maintain an open airway and improve sleep quality.
Talk to your dentist about any symptoms of sleep apnea that you or a loved one may be experiencing, and find out how you can achieve a healthier and more restful night’s sleep.
Plumb Dental offers general dentistry for the entire family, including preventative care, root canals, implant restoration, cosmetic work—even whole smile makeovers. To schedule an appointment, call (435) 673-9606 or visit their website at plumbdental.com.
Health and Fitness
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr William Plumb graduated from the State University of New York School of Dentistry in 2006. He opened Plumb Dental in St George in 2009. He has received extensive continuing education in cosmetic dentistry as well as oral surgery and implantology. He loves living in Southern Utah with his wife Kari and their four children.