Sleep Apnea: How Your Dentist Can Help You Breathe Easier at Night

Do you find yourself constantly tired during the day, even after what you thought was a full night’s sleep? You might be dealing with sleep apnea, a common but serious sleep disorder. At Diamond Dental Care & Implant Centre, we’re not just concerned with your smile — we care about your overall health, including how well you sleep at night.

Recognising the Signs of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring. Here are some key symptoms to watch out for:

• Chronic loud snoring
• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
• Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes or irritability
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek help. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Your Dentist: An Unexpected Ally in Sleep Apnea Treatment

You might be surprised to learn that your dentist can play a significant role in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. At Diamond Dental Care & Implant Centre, Dr. Doug Leishman is trained to spot the oral signs of sleep apnea and can work with you to find an effective solution.

Dentists are often the first to notice signs of sleep apnea because they’re familiar with the structures of your mouth and throat. During your regular check-ups, Dr. Leishman might notice signs like a small jaw, large tongue, enlarged tonsils, or flattened teeth from grinding — all potential contributors to sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

While the most common treatment for severe sleep apnea is a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, there are other options that your dentist can provide for mild to moderate cases:

1. Oral Appliances: These custom-made devices fit like a mouthguard and work by repositioning your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep. They’re comfortable, portable, and easy to use.

2. Mandibular Advancement Devices: Similar to oral appliances, these devices move your lower jaw forward, which can help prevent your tongue and soft tissues from collapsing and blocking your airway.

3. Tongue Retaining Devices: These hold your tongue in a forward position to keep your airway open during sleep.

Dr. Leishman can assess your individual needs and recommend the most suitable apnea treatment for you. He can also work in conjunction with your GP or a sleep specialist to ensure you receive comprehensive care.

Remember, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your overall health and wellbeing. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Diamond Dental Care & Implant Centre. We’re here to help you breathe easier and sleep better.

Give us a call at 7 5477 0889 to schedule an appointment. Together, we can work towards a solution that will have you waking up refreshed and ready to face the day.