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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Some patients complain of nighttime snoring that interrupts their sleep. Others feel constantly tired, have trouble concentrating and wake up gasping for breath. These symptoms may be associated with sleep apnea.
Dr. Greg Larson, SF cosmetic dentistry expert helps patients recognize and overcome sleep apnea, and he trains other dentists in SF to do the same. Larson Dentistry also offers Invisalign, dental implants and teeth whitening in San Francisco.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea, called OSA, happens when a patient’s upper airway is obstructed. Relaxed throat muscles or a relaxed tongue may obstruct the airway, which interrupts breathing and forces the patient to awaken panting for breath. OSA is more common that the other type of sleep apnea – central sleep apnea. Patients with central sleep apnea experience interrupted breathing because their brains aren’t correctly signaling the muscles to breathe.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons report 20 percent of adults have some form of sleep apnea. Many patients go undiagnosed. Sleep apnea causes breathing cessations for 30 to 90 second intervals, and these intervals could repeat five to 30 times every hour.
Certain factors increase the risk of OSA, such as:
- obesity
- nasal obstruction
- family history of OSA
- small jaws and bulky tongues
- being more than 40 years old
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Involuntary muscles help patients breathe while they sleep, but blocked airways inhibit breath. The air forced in and out of the body can’t get through, and as a result, patients snore. Patients could have obstructed or impaired sinuses that makes them keep their mouth open during sleep and encourages snoring.
The Effects of Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring doesn’t just disrupt a patient’s sleep; it also affects a patient’s health. Sleep apnea increases the risk of patients developing high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attacks, stroke and depression, and some patients experience decreased sex drives. OSA patients may also experience strained relationships simply because they are exhausted. The body needs deep sleep to heal itself. Fitful sleep can weaken the immune system, cause fatigue and decrease efficiency at work. Luckily, there is hope for OSA patients to lead normal, happier lives.
Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Larson has detected and treated many patients for OSA, and he has extensive training with airway problems to treat each patient individually. Many patients familiar with OSA treatment have probably come across the CPAP machine, but some complain this machine isn’t that comfortable for sleep. Larson familiarizes patients with other types of CPAP appliances that are more comfortable and customizable. His team ensures patients know how much air pressure to use with these devices.
Larson also inspects patients for sinus issues that may be complicating the success of their CPAP machines. Some patients are good candidates for custom sleep appliances that gently hold upper airways open. The comfortable appliance allows patients to breathe naturally during sleep, and the patient can speak and drink normally with the device in place. Larson may contact other health experts such as sleep specialists, pulmonologists, physical therapists and orthodontists to make sure treatment is right for each patient.
The Larson Dentistry team knows what a huge difference a good night’s sleep can make. Patients don’t have to live without restful, sound sleep. Larson Dentistry can help manage sleep apnea and encourage healthier lives.
Learn More
To learn more about Larson Dentistry or SF cosmetic dentistry or to get familiar with a SF sedation dentist , visit http://www.larsondentistry.com/or contact their office at 415-397-2804.
About Us
The Larson Dentistry team offers extensive dental care for San Francisco patients. Dr. Greg Larson one of dentists in SF stays current in his field by attending more than 200 hours of continuing education each year and mentoring other dentists worldwide.
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