Sleep Apnoea in Officer

In our practice, we strive to help patients overcome a variety of oral health problems–and that’s not always limited to your teeth. We’re proud to offer focused solutions for sleep apnoea that are non-invasive and carried out right here in the practice.

If you suffer from any of the following, you may be dealing with sleep apnoea.

What is Sleep Apnoea?

This problem happens when your airway becomes blocked or closes during sleep–essentially, you stop breathing. To wake your body up, your brain sends a rush of adrenaline into your system, telling breathing to begin. When this happens, you may let out a loud snore that can wake yourself or your partner.

In mild sufferers, this may happen one or a few times each night. In severe cases, it can happen upwards of 20 times each night. You can imagine how difficult that makes it to get adequate, restful sleep to rejuvenate your body.

Some risk factors of this condition include:

What Can Be Done?

Thankfully, there’s hope. While serious cases of the disorder may require use of a breathing machine known as a CPAP, mild to moderate cases of sleep apnoea may be helped with a custom fit oral appliance, which we’re happy to offer in the practice. The oral appliance works by shifting your jaw slightly forward, keeping your airway open during sleep.

The appliance is much like a retainer, and is comfortable and fit specifically to your mouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a sleep disorder?

Common symptoms include sleepiness, flat or chipped teeth and sore jaws when you wake up.

Is snoring a symptom of sleep apnoea?

Snoring can occur on its own or in combination with sleep apnoea. If you do not snore, it does not necessarily mean you don’t have a sleeping disorder. However, snoring can occur on its own, particularly if you’re suffering from nasal congestion or consumed alcohol before bedtime.

How long does it take for an oral appliance to start working?

A properly-fitting oral appliance can start to work from the first night of use. However, some adjustments may be necessary to fine-tune the fit and efficacy.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by a decrease or complete halt in airflow despite an ongoing effort to breathe. It occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, leading to the collapse of soft tissue in the back of the throat, which blocks the upper airway.

How is sleep apnea treatment done?

Sleep apnea treatment can include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or sleeping on your side, as well as using devices like a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to keep your airway open during sleep. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove excess tissue in the throat or reposition the jaw.

What is the best treatment for insomnia?

The best treatment for insomnia depends on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. It often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep hygiene and reducing stress, and may include cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which is considered the most effective long-term treatment. In some cases, medication may be prescribed, but this is usually considered a short-term solution. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.