Yes, some dentists provide sleep apnea diagnostics and care, especially for patients who can’t tolerate CPAP.
What Role Do Dentists for Sleep Apnea in Bloomington, IN, Play in the Care Process?
Your dentist can assess your oral cavity and note the telltale signs of sleep apnea, which may include:
- Narrow Airway
- Tooth Wear
- Lax Airway Structure
Signs that you may notice on your own include:
- Snoring
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Mood Changes
- Recurrent Waking
Eventually, without intervention, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure and significant health risks or complications.
Your sleep apnea dentist in Bloomington, IN, can also order a sleep study or refer you to a sleep specialist for diagnostics.
Sleep Apnea Treatment with Your Dentist
Sleep specialists tend to prescribe a CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea. However, some patients can’t acclimate to this bulky device and mask (worn during sleep).
Your dentist for snoring and sleep apnea in Bloomington, IN, can prescribe a custom appliance worn over the teeth. This appliance helps keep the airway open during the night by separating the upper and lower jaws at the back of the mouth.
In some cases, the appliance is sufficient for sleep apnea. Other times, patients pair it with their CPAP machine or use it during travel; the CPAP is cumbersome to pack in a suitcase.
Dentist Consultation for Sleep Apnea
It’s important to remember that snoring and other sleep apnea symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have the sleep disorder, which is why it’s important to book a sleep apnea consultation with the dentist.
The consultation includes a conversation about your sleep concerns and habits. The dentist will then provide an exam and may recommend a sleep study or provide a referral.
For Sleep Apnea Treatment, Contact Us
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