November 30, 2015

How Do You Know If You Have Sleep Apnea?

As a general dentist in Sun Prairie, WI and an advocate for healthy teeth and gums, Dr. Robert Stevens wants to promote awareness about some hidden dangers of gum disease and sleep apnea. Long known for its ability to destroy healthy smiles and dreams, gum disease is one condition that does not need much of an introduction. It does however, need to be discussed to make everyone more aware of how it can lead to the development of sleep apnea, a condition that is potentially life-threatening.

Sleep Apnea and Gum Disease

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Sun Prairie, WISleep apnea is a very common condition that affects millions of people. Many people often confuse some of its symptoms as normal. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact your dentist to learn more about gum disease dangers and how they pertain to you.

Signs you may have sleep apnea include:

  • Snoring
  • TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder)
  • Pain in the neck or surrounding area
  • Daytime drowsiness
  • Insomnia
  • Morning headaches

These symptoms along with gum disease can cause one to experience great distress and discomfort. The key to successful sleep apnea treatment is to see a dentist so they can treat the underlying condition, gum disease. Gum disease is not something that goes away on its own. It requires special and ongoing treatment. Once treatment has been administered, sleep apnea treatment can begin.

There are several ways that sleep apnea can be treated. Under the supervision of a dentist, you may be encouraged to:

  • Modify your lifestyle
  • Lose weight
  • Improve your oral health
  • Use medicine
  • Use a CPAP device
  • Undergo oral surgery

There is no shame in having sleep apnea or gum disease. Invest in your health so you can get treated as soon as possible.

Stop greeting the world with a compromised smile and lack of sleep. Contact our General, Family, and Cosmetic Dentistry at (208) 375-5656 to make an appointment with Dr. Stevens for a proper diagnosis and treatment, so you can live life the way you want.

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