Optimum oral health care depends on more than just brushing and flossing your teeth. It’s important to also make sure that your mouth is functioning properly and not hindering any aspects of your life. If you have irregular breathing patterns while you sleep, it could be linked to an issue within your mouth that is preventing your airway from receiving the necessary amount of air to function. This is known as sleep apnea, which occurs when individuals have interrupted breathing patterns. Common facts about sleep apnea are listed below:
– If you suffer from allergies or sinus problems, you may be at an increased risk for sleep apnea.
– Sleep apnea can be treated with altered sleeping habits, CPAP devices, oral appliances, and surgery.
– Sleep apnea comes in two common forms; obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea arises when you have a blockage in your air flow, whereas central sleep apnea occurs when brain signals sent to your breathing muscles are disrupted.
– Numerous genetic predispositions exist that can help increase your risk for sleep apnea. This includes individuals with large tonsils, a large tongue, a small jaw in relation to your face, and a nasal obstruction associated with a deviated septum. Furthermore, a family history of the disorder can also increase your risk of developing sleep apnea.
If you are ready to see what sleep apnea treatments can do to enhance your oral health, please come visit Lakewinds Dental at our dentist office in Ludington, Michigan. Dr. Jason Martin and our team can be reached at 231-845-7240.
