If you have family members who complain about your snoring and you tend to wake up tired, it could be a sign that you are living with a serious medical disorder called sleep apnea. Affecting about 2% of women and 4% of men nationwide, the condition is highly treatable—but only if you know you have a problem. Here is a little more information about sleep apnea and how your family dentist can help. 

Understanding Sleep Apnea & Its Treatments

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious condition marked by interrupted breathing during sleep, depriving a person’s muscles, heart, and brain of the oxygen the body needs. People who struggle with sleep apnea often report headaches, extreme fatigue, high blood pressure, and even depression, since the lack of rest and oxygen can be so detrimental to your health. In fact, sleep apnea has even been tied to potentially fatal conditions such as cancer, heart failure, and stroke. 

Although the causes of sleep apnea are still being investigated, people who are over the age of 40, overweight, and who have a family history with the disorder are more likely to struggle with the condition.

How Can Your Dentist Help? 

Fortunately, sleep apnea can be treated by working with your family dentist. Oral appliances worn during sleep can bring the bottom part of the jaw forward, opening up the airway and keeping the muscles of the neck toned and supported. In fact, the FDA has approved more than 100 different appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea, with varieties available for people with a range of different oral health, sleep, and dental conditions. 

If you suspect that you are living with sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to meet with your doctor and the professionals at Coulee Family Dental. With more than 40 years worth of experience, Dr. Joseph Kotnour, DDS can help with everything from sleep disorders and nighttime teeth grinding to dental implants and emergency dentistry. To learn more about this La Crosse, WI, dental office, visit them online or call (608) 782-3102.