Sleep apnea is a type of sleep breathing disorder characterized by interruptions and pauses in breathing. It is caused when something blocks the airway and prevents normal breathing, such as the soft tissues of the throat collapsing or the tongue rolling back in the throat. As your quality of sleep has a strong impact on your overall health and wellbeing, sleep apnea may contribute to several serious health problems, including heart disease, liver problems and high blood pressure.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Some common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme daytime drowsiness
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Personality changes and irritability
- Snoring
- Walking with a sore or dry throat
- Frequent morning headaches
Oral Appliance Therapy
Dr. Karey Kusuhara offers sleep apnea appliances to help you breathe easily at night and get the rest you need to stay healthy. Also known as oral appliance therapy, these devices are good options for those with mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring.
Your appliance is custom-made to ensure that it fits comfortably in your mouth, similar to a regular mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer. It works by gently repositioning your lower jaw in a slightly forward position, which keeps your airway open and ensures normal, natural breathing while you sleep.
The benefits of sleep appliances extend beyond simply helping you get a restful night’s sleep. By managing sleep apnea effectively, your risk of associated health problems is greatly reduced. Patients also find that they feel more alert and refreshed during the day, and that they have improved concentration and focus as well as a better overall quality of life.
If you believe you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, we encourage you to seek a diagnosis from a sleep physician. Our dentist will work closely with you and your physician to ensure you are receiving the care you need.
For more information about sleep apnea appliances in Northridge, California, and to schedule your consultation with our experienced dentist, reach out to Kusuhara Family Dentistry today at 818-772-7720. We are committed to helping you achieve better sleep and improved health.