You’ve probably never considered telling Dr. Berlin about your snoring or sleep apnea symptoms. What could your dentist do? More than you think. Dr. Berlin can provide a conservative therapy that will return your quality of life and peaceful sleep.
If you feel fatigued, irritable, or forgetful during the day; if you snore loudly; if you awaken suddenly, gasping for air or choking, you may suffer with sleep apnea. Many sleep apnea patients fall asleep at inappropriate times because they never achieve the deep, REM sleep necessary for the body to fully recharge. The common condition can contribute to increased potential for heart attack, as well as an accident due to lack of concentration. Patients of all ages and genders can develop sleep apnea.
If you have any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment to discuss your situation with Dr. Berlin. He may refer you to a reputable sleep lab for analysis. Once your condition is diagnosed as snoring or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the dentist will create a custom-fitted nightguard for you. Wear the comfortable appliance while you sleep, and you’ll enjoy solid, sound rest.
Call today to reserve your personal sleep apnea or snoring consultation with Dr. Berlin. Our McKinney dental office serves patients from Allen, Frisco, and surrounding areas. We’ll give you a reason to smile!
Snoring & Sleep Apnea FAQs
What causes snoring?
Snoring occurs when soft tissues in the mouth and throat vibrate as air passes into and out of the body while a person sleeps.
What’s the difference between snoring and sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea sufferers may snore, but not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by many periods of 10 seconds or longer when a person cannot breathe. Loose tissues in the mouth completely block airflow. The body sends a message to the brain, and the brain wakes the body to begin breathing. This is why some people wake up choking or gasping. Other individuals do not become completely conscious, but they never enter deep, restful REM sleep.
Who is at risk for sleep apnea?
While men and overweight persons have increased potential to develop obstructive sleep apnea, anyone – child or adult – can suffer from OSA.
Does a nightguard always work?
A nightguard usually works for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, or for those who do not have OSA but would like to stop snoring. Other OSA therapies include: the CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine and mask system or surgery. Many over-the-counter solutions can alleviate snoring.
Will a nightguard work if I’m CPAP intolerant?
Oftentimes, patients who cannot tolerate the CPAP machine (because of restless sleep, a lack of a good seal on the mask, claustrophobia, or other reasons) find relief immediately after wearing a custom nightguard.