Sleep Appliance for Sleep Apnea at Summerland Dental Centre

At Summerland Dental Centre, we understand the importance of quality sleep & the impact it has on your overall health. Many individuals experience interruptions in deep sleep due to conditions like sleep apnea, which may subsequently elevate the risk of various health issues. That’s why we offer sleep appliances, specifically the OrthoApnea Classic, to help those who suffer from sleep apnea achieve better sleep & improve their health.

What is Sleep Apnea?

As a major sleep disorder, sleep apnea involves recurrent episodes of breathing cessation and resumption throughout the night. It mainly manifests as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or central sleep apnea. In OSA, excessive relaxation of throat muscles leads to airway blockage, disrupting normal breathing. Meanwhile, central sleep apnea is caused by the brain’s inability to properly signal the respiratory muscles.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

A number of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

Loud snoring – regularly noticed by a sleeping partner.
Gasping or choking during sleep – Sudden wakefulness with a sensation of gasping for air.
Excessive daytime sleepiness – Feeling tired during the day despite getting a full night’s sleep.
Morning headaches – Waking up with headaches that may indicate disrupted breathing during the night.
Difficulty concentrating – Feeling groggy, forgetful, or easily distracted.
Irritability or mood swings – Sleep deprivation can impact emotional health and lead to irritability.

If you or your loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it may be a sign of sleep apnea, and a visit to a local dentist specializing in sleep appliance dentistry could help.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

The causes of sleep apnea vary, but several factors can increase the risk:

Obesity – Carrying extra weight often leads to fat accumulation in the neck and throat area, potentially contributing to airway obstruction.
Age – People over the age of 40 are more likely to develop sleep apnea.
Anatomical factors – A large tongue, thick neck, or enlarged tonsils can narrow the airway.
Family history – Genetics plays a role, as sleep apnea can run in families.
Smoking – Smoking increases inflammation in the upper airways, worsening symptoms.
Alcohol or sedative use – These substances relax the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep.

Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea

If sleep apnea goes untreated, it may predispose individuals to a range of severe health complications.

High blood pressure (hypertension) – Interrupted sleep can strain the heart, raising blood pressure.
Heart disease – Individuals with sleep apnea may experience an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, stroke, and irregular heart rhythms.
Type 2 diabetes – Poor sleep and lack of oxygen can increase insulin resistance.
Depression and anxiety – Chronic sleep deprivation can have a significant impact on mental health.
Memory issues and concentration difficulties – Sleep apnea reduces your ability to think clearly and focus during the day.

How Sleep Appliances Help

At Summerland Dental Centre, we use the OrthoApnea Classic, a proven sleep appliance to treat sleep apnea. These sleep appliances are a non-invasive, comfortable solution for people who suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
The OrthoApnea Classic is a custom-fitted oral appliance designed to reposition the lower jaw and tongue forward, keeping the airway open during sleep. This device is easy to wear, quiet, and effective, making it a great alternative for those who cannot tolerate CPAP machines.

Benefits of Sleep Appliances

Comfortable and non-invasive: Unlike CPAP machines, sleep appliances are easy to wear and do not require any complicated equipment.
Improved quality of sleep: By maintaining an open airway, sleep appliances help you breathe better during the night, taking into consideration more restful sleep.
Portable and convenient: Sleep appliances are compact and easy to take with you on the go, perfect for traveling.
Custom-fitted for your needs: Each sleep appliance is custom-made for your mouth, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Why Choose Summerland Dental Centre for Sleep Appliances?

If you are searching for a sleep appliance provider, our team at Summerland Dental Centre is here to help. We are committed to providing the best possible care for patients with sleep apnea. As a trusted local dentist, we understand the importance of quality sleep & its effect on your overall health. Our team uses the latest technology & techniques to fit you with the OrthoApnea Classic, a proven solution for managing sleep apnea & improving your sleep quality.
We work closely with each patient to ensure that the appliance is fitted correctly and comfortably. Our goal is to help you breathe better, sleep better, and feel better every day.

Contact Us Today

If you are facing the symptoms of sleep apnea or are simply looking for an alternative to CPAP, we encourage you to visit Summerland Dental Centre in Summerland, BC. Our team is ready to help you regain control of your sleep and improve your overall health. Contact us today to book your consultation & take the first step toward a better night’s sleep.

Faqs

How Can I Tell If I Have Sleep Apnea?

Familiar symptoms include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, waking up tired, and daytime fatigue. If you experience these, it's important to seek a diagnosis from a healthcare provider.

What Are the Most Efficient Treatments for Sleep Apnea?

Effective treatments include CPAP therapy, dental appliances, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgery. A dentist can help with non-invasive oral appliances that treat mild to moderate sleep apnea.

Can a Dentist Help Treat Sleep Apnea?

Yes, dentists can provide oral appliances like the mandibular advancement device that help reposition the jaw to keep the airway open, offering a comfortable alternative to CPAP.

How Do Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea Operate?

Oral appliances operate by moving the lower jaw to prevent airway obstruction. These devices are custom-made so that they can fit into your mouth and can significantly improve sleep quality.

How Long Does it Take to Feel the Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Patients often notice improvements in sleep quality, reduced snoring, and less daytime fatigue within a few days to a few weeks of using oral appliances or starting CPAP therapy.

Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous if Left Untreated?

Yes, sleep apnea without treatment can increase the risk of high blood pressure and stroke and can cause accidents due to sleepiness and fatigue.

How Can Summerland Dental Help with Sleep Apnea?

At Summerland Dental, we offer specialized sleep apnea treatments, including custom oral appliances that effectively manage sleep apnea symptoms and amp up your quality of life.

Can Sleep Apnea Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes, many cases of sleep apnea can be treated without surgery through methods such as CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and lifestyle changes like weight loss or sleeping position adjustments.

Will Treating Sleep Apnea Improve My Sleep Quality?

Yes, treating sleep apnea can significantly amp up your sleep quality. You will likely experience less snoring, fewer disruptions, and more restful sleep, leading to better energy and concentration during the day.

Can Sleep Apnea Cause Memory or Concentration Problems?

Yes, untreated sleep apnea can lead to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue due to poor sleep quality. Treating sleep apnea often results in improved cognitive function and mental clarity.