Snoring Cessation in Halifax
We provide diagnosis and treatment for snoring and sleep apnea to help you manage symptoms and get a good night’s rest.
How Snoring and Sleep Apnea Affect Your Health
Snoring and sleep apnea can disrupt your sleep and leave you exhausted. Sleep deprivation and sleep disorders have been linked to high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, worsening depression or ADHD, and diabetes. Speak to your family physician if you suspect you are suffering from a sleep disorder.
Snoring
Snoring occurs when air can’t freely move through your airway into your lungs. This results in difficulty breathing and the familiar snoring sound. Snoring can be caused by an obstructed airway, being overweight, your sleeping position, or age. If it isn’t treated it can interfere with the quality of your sleep.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is caused by the muscles in your throat relaxing while you’re asleep. This makes your airway become narrow, blocking the airflow so you can’t draw a breath. When this happens, you wake up and start breathing again, and then fall back asleep. This sleep/wake cycle can happen up to 30 times an hour, and many people who suffer from sleep apnea are not even aware that they’ve woken up. Sleep apnea can have a serious impact on your health if it isn’t treated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do dentists treat sleep apnea and snoring?
Dental treatment for sleep apnea usually involves the use of a CPAP machine and mask. The CPAP machine prevents apnea by keeping your airway open while you sleep.
Dental treatment for snoring depends on the cause. Treatments can include orthodontic treatment, bite appliances to reposition the jaws, or sleep counselling.
We may also recommend lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, reducing stress, and quitting smoking to reduce or eliminate risk factors that can contribute to snoring or sleep apnea.
What is oral appliance therapy for snoring?
Oral appliance therapy uses a device that fits over your teeth and holds your airway open. The appliance is designed to fit comfortably so it doesn’t interfere with your sleep.
Source AADSM: https://www.aadsm.org/oral_appliance_therapy.php
Do I need to go to my doctor before seeing a dentist for snoring or apnea treatment?
If you suffer from snoring or sleep apnea, you should speak to your physician before talking to your dentist. Sleep disorders are medical conditions, and they need to be properly diagnosed before treatment begins. Once you begin treatment with a dentist, they will work together with your doctor to determine the right treatment for you.
Source CDA: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/about/position_statements/oralappliance/
Source ADA: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sleep-apnea-and-snoring
