What is Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is a field of dentistry that specializes in the treatment of restricted breathing while sleeping. Known as sleep disordered breathing (SBD), dentists treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by keeping the airway free of obstructions while sleeping.
Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are often caused by the anatomical structure of the mouth. Specifically, both conditions often result from relaxing tissues in the mouth and throat, while asleep. As the airway narrows, breathing becomes irregular, resulting in obstructive sleep apnea or snoring.
Symptoms of Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Most patients learn that they snore or pause while breathing from someone else. Those who live alone may be unaware of snoring or lapses in breaths while asleep but may experience symptoms including:
- Excessive sleepiness throughout the day
- Headaches in the morning
- Weight gain for unknown reason
- Awakening in the middle of the night confused
- Coughing or gagging upon awakening
- Waking up gasping for air
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or mood changes
- Dry, irritated throat upon awakening
Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea may pose serious risks to your health. Left untreated both conditions put your health at risk, as long-term snoring or obstructive sleep apnea may increase your risk of:
- Hypoxia (decreased blood oxygen levels)
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Heart arrhythmias
- Coronary artery disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue
How We Treat Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
At Amarillo Dental Associates, we provide snoring therapy and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea using custom oral appliances that keep the airway open.
Oral Appliances for Snoring
Oral appliances for snoring keep the jaw in a slightly forward position. This prevents the relaxation of the soft tissues, which restrict the airway and lead to tissue rattling while you sleep.
Oral Appliances for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances for obstructive sleep apnea position the tongue so that it cannot restrict the airway. This is often achieved through gently pushing the lower jaw (mandible) forward while you sleep.
Why Choose Amarillo Dental Associates?
At Amarillo Dental Associates, our goal is to help our patients protect their oral health, and their overall health. Oral appliances for snoring or obstructive sleep apnea are noninvasive, highly effective treatments for many people.
Serving the patients of Amarillo and surrounding areas for nearly 50 years, Amarillo Dental Associates is helmed by Dr. Ryan Street and Dr. Ryan Hyde, natives of Amarillo who returned to their hometown to practice dentistry and raise their own families. Many of our staff members have been with us for decades, and we love providing friendly, experienced, comprehensive dentistry, including sleep dentistry to all members of your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Dentistry
Schedule a Consultation for Snoring Therapy or Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you’re concerned about snoring, schedule an appointment at Amarillo Dental Associates. If you’ve received a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, book an appointment by calling 806-355-7463, or sending us a message.