Parkwood Dental Associates

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Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea And Diagnosis

At Parkwood Dental Associates, we specialize in comprehensive dental sleep medicine, focusing on effective oral appliance therapy to address snoring, which impacts millions of people across all age groups.

Oral appliance therapy is recognized as the most common treatment for severe snoring issues. Our approach may involve lifestyle changes to improve sleep patterns, as well as the use of customized oral appliances designed to help keep the airways open during sleep. This personalized treatment can lead to more restful nights and improved overall health.

If you or a loved one is struggling with snoring, contact us to learn more about how we can help!

Common Causes of Snoring

Snoring is primarily caused by the vibrations of the soft and hard palates due to increasingly narrow air passages. When air flows through these restricted passages, it causes a “flapping” sound because the tissue is soft. While surgery is one potential solution to alleviate snoring, it isn’t always successful, as the source of the sound may not originate solely from the soft palate; in some cases, snoring can arise from tissues in the upper airway. Understanding the underlying causes of snoring is crucial for effective treatment, and we can help identify the best approach for you.

Common causes:

  • Smoking
  • Alcohol
  • Health problems 
  • Obesity
  • Obstructed nasal passages – deviated septum
  • Poor muscle tone of the tongue
  • Daytime fatigue 
  • Sleep apnea
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Allergies

Sleep Apnea

Loud snorers may be experiencing a more serious condition known as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), where the blockage of air passages is so significant that no air can get through, leading to repeated awakenings throughout the night. OSAS can have serious health implications, potentially contributing to conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and depression. Therefore, if you experience any sleep-related symptoms, it’s essential to seek a diagnosis from a medical professional to address these concerns appropriately.