Sleep apnea is a type of sleep breathing disorder characterized by interruptions and pauses in breathing while asleep. These pauses in breathing are caused by obstructions in the airway, such as the tongue rolling back in the throat or the soft tissues of the throat collapsing. When these obstructions occur, they block the regular flow of oxygen in your body, which, in turn, can lead to a number of serious health problems. These include heart disease; high blood pressure; liver problems; issues with the immune, digestive and central nervous systems; stroke; behavioral issues such as anxiety and depression; increased risk of diabetes; weight gain; and impaired memory and difficulty concentrating.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme daytime drowsiness
- Personality changes
- Irritability and mood swings
- Snoring
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Waking up with a very sore or dry throat
- Frequent morning headaches
If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, our dentist will work with your sleep physician to help create a treatment plan that will manage the disorder and allow you to get the rest you need at night. Mild to moderate sleep apnea can often be managed with oral appliance therapy. A custom-made oral appliance will advance your jaw slightly forward, preventing airway blockages while you sleep and allowing you to breathe easily at night.
We invite you to call us at 949-644-0071 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jon Glenn and learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Newport Beach, California. We are committed to helping you enjoy a healthy quality of life.