Sleep Dentistry – Concord, NH

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF OSA

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of OSA is crucial for seeking timely treatment. Common indicators include:

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, often noticed by a partner
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning headaches
• Insomnia or restless sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritibility or mood changes

THE PROCESS OF GETTING A SLEEP STUDY

Diagnosing sleep apnea requires a thorough evaluation, which often includes a sleep study (polysomnography). Here’s what you can expect during the process:

Step 1
• Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at Generations Dental Care. We'll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you have about sleep apnea.
Step 2
• Referral for a Sleep Study: If OSA is suspected, we will refer you to a sleep specialist for a sleep study. This can be done in a sleep lab or at home, depending on your specific circumstances and the specialist's recommendations.
Step 3
• Polysomnography: During the study, various body functions are monitored, including brain waves, oxygen levels in the blood, heart rate, breathing, and eye and leg movements.
Step 4
• Diagnosis: Based on the results, a sleep specialist will diagnose the severity of your sleep apnea and recommend appropriate treatment options.

CPAP INTOLERANCE AND ALTERNATIVES

Many patients find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or intolerable. While a successful first-line treatment for OSA, this issue has become more pronounced since the Philips recall of certain CPAP devices, which has led many to seek alternative treatments. At Generations Dental Care, we’ve observed that patients choosing oral sleep appliances often achieve better outcomes with greater comfort compared to their experiences with inconsistent CPAP usage.

WHAT IS ORAL APPLIANCE THERAPY?

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) involves wearing a custom-fitted device, similar to a mouthguard, while you sleep. This device helps keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw and tongue, preventing airway collapse and allowing you to breathe normally throughout the night.

BENEFITS OF ORAL APPLIANCE THERAPY

Oral appliance therapy offers numerous benefits, especially for those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy:

• Comfort: The appliance is comfortable and easy to wear, improving adherence and overall effectiveness.
• Portability: It’s small and convenient to travel with, unlike bulky CPAP machines. Quiet: Oral appliances are silent, providing a more peaceful sleep environment for both you and your partner.
• Non-Invasive: This treatment is non-invasive, making it an attractive option for those seeking an alternative to CPAP.

CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS

OSA can lead to a variety of cardiovascular issues, including:.

• High Blood Pressure: Repeated awakenings during the night cause sudden drops in blood oxygen levels, increasing blood pressure and putting strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Heart Disease: OSA significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and other heart-related problems.
• Stroke: There is a higher risk of stroke among those with untreated sleep apnea due to the constant strain on the blood vessels.

DAYTIME FATIGUE AND COMPLICATIONS

Excessive daytime sleepiness can have severe implications, such as:

• Workplace Accidents: Impaired concentration and alertness increase the likelihood of accidents and errors at work.
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Drowsiness behind the wheel poses a significant risk, leading to a higher incidence of motor vehicle accidents.

METABOLIC AND ENDOCRINE DISORDERS

OSA can contribute to metabolic disorders, including:

• Type 2 Diabetes: The condition is linked to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Metabolic Syndrome: This cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and high blood sugar, raises the risk of heart disease and stroke.

COGNITIVE AND MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Sleep apnea can adversely affect your mental health and cognitive functions:

• Memory and Learning Problems: Interrupted sleep impacts cognitive processes, affecting memory, concentration, and decision-making skills.
• Depression and Anxiety: Chronic fatigue and sleep disruption are closely linked to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

ORAL-SYSTEMIC HEALTH

OSA doesn’t just impact your sleep; it has significant implications for your overall health. This condition underscores the vital connection between oral health and systemic health, illustrating how dentists collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure whole-body health. Untreated sleep apnea can exacerbate periodontal disease, lead to poor blood sugar control in diabetics, and increase systemic inflammation, further highlighting the importance of addressing this condition promptly.

OVERALL QUALITY OF LIFE

The cumulative effects of untreated sleep apnea can significantly reduce your quality of life. From constant fatigue and irritability to serious health risks, the condition affects almost every aspect of your daily life.

SLEEP AND IMPROVED HEALTH.
EXPERTS AT DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE

Our lead sleep dentist, Dr. Christopher Binder, is an American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) Qualified Dentist. This prestigious credential signifies his dedication to excellence in the field and commitment to staying at the forefront of sleep apnea treatment. Additionally, some of our other doctors have completed extensive sleep dentistry training as well. Their extensive training ensures that you receive expert care from a team well-versed in the latest advancements and techniques.

According to the AADSM, only qualified dentists should treat conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. General dentists who lack the specialized education and training may not be adequately prepared to determine the appropriate appliances for different patients, prevent or manage side effects, and ensure the long-term effectiveness of therapy. Sleep physicians and pulmonologists rely on the expertise of AADSM Qualified Dentists to provide the highest level of patient care.

PATIENT-CENTERED APPROACH

We believe in a personalized approach to treatment. Our team takes the time to understand your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that you receive the most effective and comfortable treatment possible.

COMPREHENSIVE CARE

From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we provide comprehensive care to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We collaborate closely with sleep specialists and other healthcare providers to offer a seamless, integrated approach to managing your sleep apnea.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD BETTER SLEEP TODAY

If you or a loved one is struggling with the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Generations Dental Care in Concord, New Hampshire, to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to support you on your journey to better sleep and improved overall health.

Call us at (603) 225-6331 to learn more about our services and to schedule your appointment. At Generations Dental Care, your health and well-being are our top priorities. Let us help you reclaim restful sleep and a healthier life.