Do Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea?

When we think of dentists, we usually associate them with routine dental cleanings, fillings, and other preventive and restorative dental treatments.

However, what many people may not know is that dentists can also play a significant role in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. 

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to numerous health problems if left untreated. Let's explore how dentists can help with this condition.

Sleep apnea is often caused by the relaxation of the muscles in the throat and tongue, which obstructs the airway and prevents proper breathing while sleeping.

This can result in loud snoring, gasping for air, and frequent waking throughout the night, leading to daytime fatigue, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and other health issues.

Dentists who are trained in dental sleep medicine can help diagnose and provide treatment options for sleep apnea. They may work closely with sleep specialists and primary care physicians to identify the condition and develop a suitable treatment plan for patients.

The first step in treating sleep apnea involves proper diagnosis. Dentists may use specialized questionnaires, physical examinations, and oral cavity assessments to determine if a patient is at risk for or has sleep apnea. 

Once diagnosed, dentists can recommend various treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the patient.

One common approach is the use of oral appliance therapy. These are custom-made devices that are worn in the mouth during sleep to reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open and allowing for easier breathing.

Oral appliances are generally well-tolerated and can be an effective treatment option, particularly for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea.

Dentists work closely with patients to ensure the proper fit and provide ongoing care and adjustments as needed.

In some cases, dentists may also recommend lifestyle changes and other behavioral modifications to complement the use of oral appliances.

These may include weight loss, exercise, positional therapy, and avoiding certain sleep positions or substances like alcohol and sedatives that can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

It's important to note that dentists cannot replace the role of sleep specialists or primary care physicians in the diagnosis and management of sleep apnea.

However, they play a crucial part in screening, referring patients, and providing effective treatment options for those diagnosed with the condition.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea or are experiencing symptoms such as chronic snoring, restless sleep, or daytime fatigue, it's important to seek medical attention.

Consult with Dr. Green and her team of sleep advocates at Grants Ferry Family Dentistry. With many hours of education in the treatment of sleep apnea, the team here at GFFD will find what line of therapy is best for you.