Sleep Apnea

You might wonder why your orthodontist is concerned with sleep apnea, and that’s a great question!

While there is little correlation between orthodontic care and a sleep-related breathing disorder, Dr. Cermin has completed additional training in sleep medicine that has qualified her to be a provider of oral sleep appliances. These appliances help to open the airway and provide better oxidation during sleep. Dr. Cermin is always on the lookout for signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition that occurs when a person isn’t able to breathe properly while asleep, due to an anatomical obstruction of the airway. When left untreated, it can lead to decreased quality of life and an increased risk for stroke, high blood pressure, heart failure, depression, and daytime sleepiness.

Dr. Cermin and her staff are pleased to offer this sleep wellness treatment in conjunction with your physician or sleep doctor in an effort to bring health to the whole person and increase quality of life.

Why does it matter?

Studies have shown that roughly 25 million people in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea, but only 12% have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder. Apnea has been linked to daytime fatigue, Type II diabetes, stroke, heart attack, behavioral problems, complications with medications, metabolic syndrome, and high blood pressure. Treatment can slow or even repair damage caused by apnea-induced low oxygen while sleeping. Early detection is an extremely important factor in treatment.

Here at Falls Orthodontics, we strive to provide care that increases your quality of life. At your initial exam or adjustment visit, we will take a look at your airway and assess if you may be at risk for sleep apnea.

Signs and symptoms of Sleep Apnea include:

• Waking up with a sore or dry throat
• Loud snoring
• Occasionally waking up with a choking or gasping sensation
• Sleepiness or lack of energy during the day
• Sleepiness while driving
• Morning headaches
• Restless sleep
• Forgetfulness and mood changes
• Recurrent awakenings or insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating during the day

Risk factors for sleep apnea include: 

• Being overweight
• A narrow airway
• Smoking
• Chronically constricted nasal passages
• Being male
• Being in middle age
• A family history of sleep apnea

Take our Sleep Questionnaire to see if you are at risk for a sleep-related breathing disorder.

Treatment Options

There are several options to treat OSA. Mild to moderate cases may often be treated by a removable oral device. This device moves the jaw forward and opens the airway to provide better nighttime oxidation. Those with severe apnea who were not successful with CPAP or BiPAP may also benefit from removable oral devices. Severe sleep apnea treatment may include CPAP, BiPAP, or surgical options. Talk to Dr. Cermin or your physician about treatment for sleep apnea.

Continued Reading:

Are you affected by lack of sleep? Read More  •  What are the consequences of Drowsy Driving? Read More

Information provided by the Sleep Foundation.