The process for taking care of one’s smile is often a bit more involved than many people think, and taking care to stay on top of routine appointments can make all the difference. Additionally, early detection is essential for issues such as oral cancer, identifying dental decay, and more, as these issues are often quicker and simpler to handle than if the issue were to progress. Still, some oral health threats may not be so traditional, which is why it is important to speak to your dentist if you suspect something is amiss. In today’s blog, your Ephrata, PA, oral surgeons take a closer look at the effects of chronic snoring on your oral health and discuss how we can help.
Causes and Key Indicators
Previously presumed an indicator of good sleep, snoring is actually anything but. It is a phenomenon that occurs when the airway relaxes or becomes blocked and air struggles to make its way through. The body has to then work harder to push oxygen through, causing vibrations in the throat tissues and the subsequent snoring sound you may be familiar with.
When a person experiences chronic snoring, there may be a number of causes or indicators that the persistent issue is indicative of an even bigger concern. For example, alcohol, caffeine, consuming large meals within two hours of bedtime, and your sleeping position may all contribute to snoring. If modifications made to these behaviors are unhelpful, ask your oral surgeon and sleep dentist about an oral appliance.
Developing Sleep Apnea
Snoring—especially when chronic—may also be a side effect of a bigger, life-threatening condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This sleep disorder is characterized by snoring and pauses in breathing, gasping for air, nighttime chest pain, memory loss, restless sleep, and more. Not only does it require medical attention, but prolonged OSA without treatment can result in stroke, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Speak with a member of our staff to set up your appointment for potential assessment and learn more today.
Planning Treatment With Our Team
Sleep apnea treatment can vary depending on individual patient needs, the extent of their snoring and/or sleep condition, and more. As such, there are a few different options to help better address patient needs. A nasal CPAP machine can be used to deliver pressurized air through a nasal mask while you sleep, or your dentist may recommend a custom oral appliance if it better suits your smile.
Contact Berks Oral Surgery.
You may not think it can be that harmful, but unmanaged chronic snoring can contribute to sleep disorders and other total-body concerns. To schedule your next appointment with our office or to learn more about the dangerous effects of unmanaged chronic snoring, call Berks Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center in Ephrata, PA, by dialing 610-374-4093.