UNDERSTANDING
Sleep Apnea

If you’re keeping your partner awake at night with loud snoring, or if you wake up gasping for breath, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. This condition occurs when you are unable to inhale enough air while sleeping due to either an involuntary relaxation of the throat or confused brain signal.

If left untreated, sleep apnea can cause drowsiness and fatigue. The long-term effects of not receiving enough oxygen during sleep can be more serious, ranging from heart disease and diabetes to decreased liver function. If you’re experiencing symptoms, you should make an appointment at Forever Smiles Family Dental today.

Dr. Nguyen can determine whether it’s sleep apnea, what the severity is, and how to treat it.

COMMON Sleep Apnea Treatments

If you are suffering from sleep apnea, some common treatments include wearing a night-guard or using a CPAP machine. Night-guards are custom-made in such a way that they hold the jaw at a certain position while you sleep. This allows for your airway to remain clear throughout the night.

In more severe cases, our doctors may suggest a CPAP machine. This device forces a continuous stream of air through a mask and into your airways, keeping them open and clear during sleep. These solutions can dramatically improve your quality of sleep and your quality of life.