Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a serious medical issue. The word apnea comes from Greek language and means "without wind". Apnea is a small cessation in the breathing pattern. This is just part of the process. Sleep apnea is different because the pauses are not of normal length and in some cases this can result in sleep apnea death. Sleep apnea symptoms are related to insomnia in that they prevent normal sleeping. There are three types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep, Central Sleep Apnea and Mixed Sleep Apnea. Central sleep apnea is caused by the brain and cannot be treated by a dentist.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome, also known as OSA, is caused by an obstruction of the airways the prevents breathing. This can cause sleep apnea snoring, which, does not sound like regular snoring. Sleep apnea can affect children or adults. The obstruction can be caused by the tongue or enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Usually the soft palate collapses and the tongue falls backwards into the throat thus preventing air from entering the lungs. People with sleep apnea need to awake in order to begin breathing normally and this prevents proper restful sleep.
Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome begins with a sleep apnea diagnosis. Sleep apnea treatment varies depending on the type of sleep apnea you have and what your specific cause of sleep apnea happens to be. A sleep apnea dental appliance is a common form of treatment. This appliance is worn at night and prevents the airway from being blocked. Sleep apnea surgery is another option but is generally not used until other options have first been explored.
If you believe you are having a problem sleep apnea and would like to learn more about the cObstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and would like to learn more about what you can do, please consider visiting us at the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team is one of the most experienced in Atlanta with over 20 years of experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like schedule an appointment with our Atlanta sleep apnea dentist, call to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.