Snoring is usually a harmless habit as long as it isn’t making it difficult for other people to rest, but it can be a sign of a serious health condition called sleep apnea in some cases. Sleep apnea will frequently disrupt a sleeper’s rest, causing them to wake up suddenly many times in a single night. Here’s a quick guide to what causes this condition, how it can lead to serious consequences that may include blindness, and how your dentist can help you enjoy better rest.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea refers to when the relaxing tissues in a sleeper’s neck weigh heavily upon their windpipe, which cuts off their supply of oxygen and causes them to awaken suddenly and out of breath. This can happen more than a hundred times in a single night in extreme cases, and suddenly awakening in this manner can be quite stressful for the nervous and cardiovascular systems. A few risk factors for sleep apnea include poor diet, lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Can Sleep Apnea Make Me Go Blind?
Sleep apnea is associated with a host of negative consequences such as grogginess, irritability, depression, lethargy, overeating, and falling asleep while operating vehicles, and some research suggests that it can lead to glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition of the eye that damages the optic nerve, which can reduce a person’s ability to see and eventually lead to complete blindness. In fact, this condition is the leading cause of blindness for those over sixty.
How Can My Dentist Help?
Luckily, many dentists offer services designed to address sleep apnea and help patients enjoy more restful nights. These include:
- At-home testing: A specialized device designed to be worn during sleep can collect valuable information to determine if you need to visit a sleep doctor for a diagnosis.
- CPAP machines: These appliances use pressurized air to help keep the patient’s airway open when they sleep.
- Oral appliances: These customized devices are designed to be worn over the teeth, and they will hold the jaw in a forward position that makes it easier for the patient to breathe while asleep.
- Laser treatment: This minimally invasive treatment can stimulate the growth of collagen in the throat and soft palate, which can make it easier for the patient to breathe while sleeping.
- Full mouth restoration: Rebuilding the teeth of some patients can make it easier for their jaws to remain in healthy positions during slumber.
- Facial orthopedics: Orthopedic facial appliances encourage the development of the maxilla, which can create more space in the throat and make it easier to breathe.
- Vivos treatment: Using a daytime-nighttime appliance, this treatment will gradually expand the upper jaw and help you breathe more easily while asleep.
Don’t let sleep apnea lead to serious overall health consequences. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to get better rest.
About the Author
Dr. Heng Lim earned his dental degree at the University of Oklahoma and received advanced training in dental implants at Baylor College of Dentistry. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the Oklahoma Dental Association. His office in Owasso offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as sleep apnea services. If you are concerned about sleep apnea, contact his office online or dial (918) 274-3779.