When talk turns to sleep issues, not everyone thinks of turning to their Conroe, TX dentist for answers. Many people are surprised to know that a wide variety of daytime discomforts, from tiredness, irritability, headaches and lack of concentration can come from the nighttime issue of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. Because OSA causes serious breathing disruptions hundreds of times a night, a person may think they have “slept” for the night, when in fact the rarely entered the restorative phase of sleep.

More About OSA

OSA is caused when the soft tissues of the throat collapse and block the airway. This happens at night, when the body is horizontal, and conscious muscle tone relaxes. Patients with OSA often snore loudly (as reported by their sleeping partners) and fail to enter a deep sleep state, as the body cycles through a pattern of falling asleep, airway blockage, and startling back almost to wakefulness, before the pattern repeats itself.

OSA Solutions From Your Dentist

Many types of OSA are receptive to a repositioning of the jaw, to keep the airway open during sleep. After determining the cause of your OSA, a sleep appliance, resembling a mouthguard, can be custom made to hold your jaw gently in a correct position, to avoid the collapse of throat tissue, and enable comfortable breathing throughout the night. If it appears that OSA treatment would benefit you, we can help you file your insurance or provide you with information on financing options.

Why Good Sleep Matters

It is obvious that loud snoring, and frequent startle movements can be disruptive to the sleeper and the sleeping partners. Poor or inadequate sleep has been linked to cardiac disease, weight gain, high blood pressure and other serious health issues. On a smaller scale (but no less serious) poor sleep can cause fatigue, irritability, forgetfulness and more. Consultation with our trusted dental team can help you get a better night’s sleep, to the benefit of your and your loved ones.

Talk To Your Dentist About Solutions for Disrupted Sleep

Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, can be a serious issue to your systemic health. If you snore loudly, or awake without feeling rested, OSA may be the cause. To find out more in Conroe, TX,  schedule a visit with the Dental Centre of Conroe by calling (936) 441-4600. We serve patients from Conroe and the neighboring communities.