As air travels through the nose and mouth, the muscles in the mouth and pharynx relax. However, it is not normal for these muscles to obstruct the airways. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition marked by breathing obstruction for periods of time during sleep. A lack of oxygen in the lungs can wake you up at night. Sleep apnea is an uncomfortable problem that can be diagnosed by a sleep specialist and treated by a dentist. Dr. John Verville and his team provide dental care for patients with sleep apnea using oral appliances in Fleming Island, FL.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Snoring
- Extreme drowsiness during the day
- Awakening with a very dry or sore throat
- Frequent morning headaches
- Insomnia
Patients who are overweight, male, over 40, or have heart health problems are more prone to developing sleep apnea. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea but require a nightguard or oral appliance, please contact us, and we will create your custom treatment.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Fleming Island, FL
Patients need to receive a sleep apnea diagnosis from a doctor before they recommend treatment. Our office can provide take-home sleep study tests with a breathing monitor. Additionally, during general dental exams, we offer an airway check. We check the tongue, how you swallow, your facial development, and your oral structure.
We may recommend an oral appliance if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea but do not want to use a CPAP machine. Oral appliances offer a portable, more comfortable alternative to CPAP machines, which are often loud and difficult to get accustomed to. We take dental impressions to create custom oral appliances. Local dental labs create oral appliances that cover the upper and lower teeth. The appliance keeps the lower jaw forward and keeps the airway open. For some patients, an oral appliance can also stop symptoms like snoring and insomnia.
Request a Dental Appointment
Do you think you or a loved one may have sleep apnea? Contact Dr. John D. Verville Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry today at 904-284-9911. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment with us on our website.