The fact is, that 18 million adults and a whole lot of children suffer from a condition. It affects sleep and so life. Called ‘sleep apnea,‘ this condition is both annoying, unhealthy, and difficult to live with. There have been many attempts and lots of research into overcoming this condition. Alas, it remains at large among us. Remedies and ways to reduce the symptoms of this disruptive condition are common. Orthodontics is doing its best to help. In this post, we’ll take you through what sleep apnea is and how orthodontics can help. Let’s get going.
Image by Sammy-Williams from Pixabay
What is Sleep Apnea?
This is a condition where people experience breathing interruptions during sleep. The stopping and starting effects duration and quality of sleep. It also affects the partners and families of those suffering this condition. Sleep apnea means that breathing pauses during sleep. This pause can last seconds or up to several minutes.
Tell me More About it
There are three types of sleep apnea. They are born from two types of blockage.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
This being the most common form of sleep apnea. This form occurs when throat muscle relaxes too much. Tonsils, the soft palate, and the tongue are all supported by these muscles. Too much relaxation from the muscles results in airway narrowing and difficulties in breathing.
When the above happens, the brain will automatically begin breathing through the nose. This corrects the issue but disrupts the actual sleep. This interruption can occur up to 30 times an hour in severe cases.
Central Sleep Apnea
This is a disorder that affects the neurotransmissions from the brain to the muscles. The transmission fails and the person will make no effort to breathe. Sounds serious.
Complex Sleep Apnea
This occurs when a person suffers from both obstructive and central sleep apnea and is the least common form.
What are the Symptoms?
In a word, snoring. Many people snore, it is not a guarantee of sleep apnea, but snoring is a fixed given with this condition. If you snore loudly enough to affect those around you, seek medical advice.
No person has ever died directly from sleep apnea
You will be pleased to hear no person has ever died directly from sleep apnea. However, sleep apnea has many undesirable side effects, some of which are serious. Below we list the most common.
- Strokes
- High blood pressure
- Heart failures/attacks
- Depressive feelings.
Image by Alexas_Fotos from Pixabay
Orthodontic Treatments of Sleep Apnea
There are three different types of dental appliances for this condition. These will be recommended by an orthodontist. The orthodontist’s recommendation depends on the exact orthodontic issue that’s causing the issue.
Braces treatment
Rapid Palate Expander
Rapid Palate Expander can be used to treat obstructive sleep issues in children. Fixed to the upper molars by cemented bands or bonding. They will bridge the upper jaw and widen the space in the upper jaw.
Mandibular Advancement Splint
This is a custom-fitted brace that changes the jaw alignment during sleep. This is for use on the lower jaw. The jaw is moved slightly forward and downward. This widens the airway and reduces obstructive symptoms.
Noteworthy Fact
As sleep apnea is considered a medical issue, consult your insurance company, and find out what they can support you with. They may well be agreeable with orthodontic treatment.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in calling an end to sleep issues then call the office. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Schulhof and Dr. Noh to discuss your needs. Then, create a game plan and get the self-confidence you deserve. It’s going to change your life. Contact us today. Orthodontics shouldn’t just be a treatment, but a health-improving aspect of life.
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Phone: 201-523-9450
Dr Schulhof graduated with high honours from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and received his specialty training from Columbia University.
His early interest in lingual orthodontics has led to him becoming the top provider for Incognito in the U.S. and the world. Dr Schulhof was part of the LingualCare Clinical Advisory Board and is now a Key Opinion Leader for 3M and Incognito. He has presented lectures on lingual orthodontics throughout the U.S. and worldwide. Dr Schulhof is also active in research and development and was a major contributor to the development of Incognito Lite. Recently, New Jersey Orthodontist Dr Schulhof has opened a satellite practice in NYC.
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