As we’ve discussed in recent blog posts, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) could mean serious hazards for your overall health and your quality of life. For some, we could offer treatment with minor changes to your daily routine, or with the assistance of an oral appliance. But in severe cases, your Olathe, KS, dentist may instead suggest sleep apnea surgery.
The Causes of Sleep Apnea
OSA could be the result of sinus or allergy issues, a deviated septum, a large neck circumference, or even due to obesity or excessive alcohol consumption. Complications with the growth and development of your jaw and oral structures is also a major factor too. No matter the cause, the disorder means that as you sleep, the soft tissues in your throat and the rear of your mouth collapse. Airflow is cut off completely so you stop breathing for seconds until the brain wakes you. While many don’t remember waking up, this could happen multiple times a night and interrupt your sleep cycle, causing you exhaustion.
Symptoms You Need to Recognize
If you sometimes wake gasping for air or choking, this could be a warning sign. Chronic snoring is a sign too, along with dry mouth in the mornings and headaches during the day. Drowsiness during the day is a factor too. Trouble staying focused or moodiness is a potential warning sign as well. When you experience these potential indicators, please let us know right away. Otherwise, your disorder could grow more severe with time, eventually threatening both your immune system and your cardiovascular system too.
Surgery
Essentially, surgery is for very complex cases that cannot be addressed with an oral appliance. After we administer sedation to help you enter a calm and relaxed state, we will gently trim and remove excess tissues and address oral structures that block your airways as you sleep. The exact procedure will vary of course, but afeard you won’t require an oral appliance, and you will be able to rest without difficulty. Remember, you will not only enjoy better rest, but your overall health could improve as a result.
If you have any questions about sleep apnea, or about when to see us for treatment, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you enjoy a better quality of life!
Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?
We want to make sure you can rest without difficulty again. Our team would like to help you sleep easily with our custom appliance technology. Schedule an appointment today and learn more about our treatment options. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.