Snoring:
Recent studies show a surprising number of people affected by snoring (a staggering 90 million Americans snore!). Snoring can cause sleep disturbances for the snorer and their sleeping partner, and can lead to serious health issues. Disruption of sleep can cause depression, irritability, stress, difficulty concentrating, and sleepiness while working and driving.
Snoring may be a symptom of a more serious condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which occurs when your tongue and soft tissues block your upper airway, which results in breathing pauses and a reduction in the amount of oxygen reaching your brain. Once your brain senses this drop in oxygen, your body is alerted to unblock the airway by tightening the throat muscles. At this point you partially awaken and the air flow resumes, usually accompanied by a gasp or snort.
This lack of sleep increases the risk of:
• High Blood pressure
• Stroke
• Heart Attack
• Depression & Anxiety
• Work-related & Motor-vehicle accidents
Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism):
Grinding or clenching of the teeth is a condition known as bruxism which affects approximately 8% of the adult population. The resulting forces of this grinding or clenching habit put excessive pressure on the muscle and tissues around your jaw and can lead to joint disorders, pain, earaches/headaches (including Migraines), damaged teeth and recessed gums.
How we can help:
Oral Appliance Therapy is one possible treatment. With this treatment, a small acrylic or nylon device, like a retainer, is worn at night. It opens the airway and improves breathing, allowing you to sleep better. These appliances come in several designs/styles and will be customized to your situation.
