Sleep Apnea & Snoring
If you snore, your sleeping partner probably complains about it. A recent study shows, your spouse has every right to be upset. For the snorer and the sleeping partner, snoring interferes with sound sleep. Both people can suffer from daytime drowsiness, irritability, lack of concentration and focus, depression, and falling asleep at inappropriate times.
Are Snoring and Sleep Apnea the Same?
No! Snoring is the sound produced by oral tissues vibrating as air passes by. While not all snorers have sleep apnea, snoring can indicate sleep apnea. The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive, or OSA. During OSA episodes, soft tissues in the mouth and throat completely block breathing. Swollen tissues, sinus problems, a thick neck, excessive weight, or physical malformations (such as a broken nose) can cause sleep apnea episodes. However, in many cases, relaxed jaw muscles allow the jaw to move slightly backward, and soft tissues get in the way of airflow.
How Is OSA Treated?
The most common medical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is the CPAP, continuous positive airway pressure, machine. This contraption has a facemask connected to a tube, connected to a base unit that emits a solid stream of oxygen. While CPAP is highly effective for many people, some find that it does not work as it should. The mask may not fit properly. The patient may feel claustrophobic. The sound of the base unit can disrupt sleep, as well.
Dr. Kobak offers a simple oral appliance as OSA treatment. A sleep guard, worn during sleep, holds the lower jaw slightly forward to eliminate airflow blockage. The tongue and soft oral tissues cannot get in the way of breathing, so deep REM sleep is achieved. Snoring also stops. If you'd like a conservative treatment for your snoring or sleep apnea, or if you know that CPAP won't work for you, talk with Dr. Kobak about a sleep guard.
Schedule Your Visit Today!
We invite you to call 516-433-2211 and make your appointment with Dr. Kobak. Whether you need a checkup, you’d like to discuss smile makeover procedures, or you’re interested in improving your oral health with restorative dentistry, Syosset Dental is here to help. Our office is conveniently located in Syosset, NY near all the major highways, easily accessible from almost any location in Nassau, Suffolk or New York City. Be sure to visit our blog and subscribe for updates, and join our conversation on Facebook, too!
