Sleep Apnoea Treatment at May St Dental Centre
Sleep apnoea is an increasingly common diagnosis, even for people who may not suspect they have it. If you’ve woken up from your own snoring or your partner has informed you that you snore loudly, it can be a sign of sleep apnoea. It can also be detected at your regular examinations, making it essential that you schedule biyearly checkups.
The Dangers of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnoea can be caused by large tonsils, a deviated septum, weight gain or genetics. Males are more likely to suffer from it than females, and those over age 40 have a higher risk.
It occurs when the soft tissues in the throat relax, causing them to vibrate with every breath taken, which leads to the sound of snoring. The airways are obstructed by the relaxed tissues, causing you to wake repeatedly and feel fatigued during the day.
The common symptoms of sleep apnoea include:
- A sore throat upon waking
- Drowsiness during the day
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Repeated waking at night
- Stopping and starting snoring
Preventing More Serious Health Concerns
If we find that you may be at risk during your six-month checkups, we’ll refer you to a doctor for a formal diagnosis. They’ll book you in for a sleep study. Based on the results, our dentists will create a sleep apnoea device for you, working in conjunction with your doctor or sleep physician.
If left untreated, it’s important to note that sleep apnoea is linked to other health problems such as diabetes, ADHD, depression, heart failure, high blood pressure and stroke.
An Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnoea
Oral appliances are worn at night during sleeping hours. It’s custom-fitted to you, making it comfortable to wear. The appliance moves the lower jaw forward, making the space in your airway bigger so that air can move freely with no vibration of the tissues in the throat.
FAQs
My partner has told me that I snore. What can I do about it?
We can provide you with a comfortable mouth piece that will open up your airway while you sleep. More oxygen is allowed to enter the bloodstream, and both you and your significant other will rest easier.
Is an oral appliance right for treating my sleep apnea?
How can a dentist treat sleep apnea?
How Can We Help?
Contact us today to book a consultation for sleep apnoea East Fremantle! All health funds are accepted.