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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep apnea and occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked. The blockage can be caused by relaxed throat muscles or excess tissue at the back of your mouth, interfering with oxygen flow. Various factors contribute to the development of OSA, including weight gain, enlarged tonsils or other anatomical factors, family history, and lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption.
Oral sleep apnea appliances such as mandibular advancement devices, are custom-made sleep aids that can be used to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. In some cases, they may eliminate the need for a bulky CPAP machine. These dental sleep appliances are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue, preventing airway obstruction during sleep. Dr. Maria Upshaw can assess your condition and recommend an appropriate oral appliance tailored to your needs.
Sleep apnea can manifest itself as various symptoms, which may include but are not limited to:
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences. The repetitive interruptions in breathing during sleep can deprive your body of oxygen and strain your cardiovascular system. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other medical conditions. Just as concerning, it can affect your quality of life, causing daytime sleepiness, impaired cognitive function, and decreased productivity.
If you experience any symptoms of sleep apnea or suspect that you may have a sleeping disorder, it is essential to consult with a trained dentist like Dr. Upshaw. Keep in mind that snoring is not always a sign of sleep apnea, so it’s important to consider all of the other symptoms as well. During your exam, your dentist in Tampa will perform a sleep screening and, if necessary, discuss a home sleep study for formal diagnosis of a sleeping disorder.
Upshaw Dental Studio offers comprehensive solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. By providing oral sleep apnea appliances and personalized care, our dedicated team can help you overcome the challenges of sleep apnea and improve your overall health and quality of life.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Maria Upshaw today!
