Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects individuals of all ages. There are three obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea. OSA occurs when the airway is blocked or obstructed during sleep, often due to the throat muscles collapsing and preventing proper airflow. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send the correct signals to the respiratory system. Complex sleep apnea is a mix of OSA and CSA sleep apnea symptoms.
An irregular breathing rhythm is the primary indicator of sleep apnea. The affected individual may stop breathing as they sleep, gasping for air, and resume breathing afterward. This pattern often continues multiple times during the night. As a result, the person wakes up feeling tired, exhausted, and groggy in the morning because they didn’t get enough rest at night.
Many individuals who struggle with sleep apnea also snore loudly. It’s also common for these individuals to grind or clench their teeth while sleeping. You may often not even be aware you have sleep apnea, primarily because the most apparent signs manifest while you’re asleep. Your partner can alert you to these conditions, or if you suspect you have this condition, Dr. Cohen can arrange a sleep test. Our sleep apnea dentist is also trained and experienced in identifying signs that indicate a likelihood of sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea can severely diminish your oral and overall well-being and quality of life. It can also cause distress to your partner, who has to contend with your heavy, loud snoring.
If you usually wake up with a morning headache, have noticed significant wear on your tooth enamel, and struggle with excessive daytime sleepiness, you may suffer from sleep apnea. Visit our dental office to start your sleep apnea treatment in Covina, CA.
Dr. Cohen can fabricate sleep apnea appliances for patients already diagnosed with OSA who dislike or are unwilling to use their CPAP device.
Our dentist in Covina will begin by screening you for common sleep apnea signs, including worn teeth. If there are enough signs to warrant concern, you may receive a take-home sleep study kit or a sleep specialist referral. Our dentist will work collaboratively with the sleep specialist to determine the best form of treatment for you.
Many individuals already diagnosed with snoring benefit from the use of oral appliances. These oral appliances include mandibular advancing devices (MADs) and tongue retaining devices (TRDs). MADs and TRDs work by holding the jaw and tongue in place to prevent airway obstruction. You may also benefit from a nightguard or anti-bruxism mouthguard to deter teeth clenching if you have this particular problem.
Don’t let sleep apnea stop you from living your best life. Enjoy restful nights and productive days by choosing sleep apnea treatment. Reach out to Dr. Cohen for an evaluation.
