How can my dentist help with sleep apnea?

Is your snoring becoming an increasing concern between you and your partner?

If your family members are starting to get worried, it may be time to see a health professional for a consultation.

Snoring can be worse than a nuisance. Poor sleep can lead to exhaustion, irritability, and decreased focus and performance. It can also increase your risk of developing potentially serious health problems, such as high blood pressure.

You may be wondering how your dentist can help.

What’s sleep apnea and how is it connected to your dentist?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by snores and breathing interruptions.

It causes your breathing to stop several times during your sleep. Each pause can last for at least 10 seconds and it can happen over 30 times every hour. These interruptions can leave you feeling exhausted the next day despite going to bed early.

Dentists can help diagnose and treat sleep apnea through dental sleep medicine. This involves customizing oral appliances to address symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and prevent damage to the teeth and surrounding structures.

OSA is one of the most common types of sleep apnea. It causes the muscles at the throat to over relax, which then blocks the airway.

Why go to your dentist in Mississauga, ON to treat snoring?

Dentists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea.

You see them regularly for routine oral examinations and during which, they can detect signs of potential health problems, including OSA. They’re in an ideal position to help as they’re also likely the first ones to recognize your symptoms.

Several dental professionals offer treatments for snoring as among their services. They’re trained in treating OSA and they can work with you and your doctors to determine the right treatment options for your case.

Oral appliances for sleep apnea are similar to sports mouthguards. Each piece is customized for the user and hence no device is exactly the same. They can work differently, depending on your symptoms. A device can reposition your lower jaw or hold your tongue in place to keep your airways open.

Who might be good candidates for dental devices for snoring?

You may benefit from custom dental devices for sleep apnea if you:

• Have already tried using a machine for snoring but are still searching for alternatives
• Are interested in non-invasive devices to help manage your snoring
• Are worried that snoring may already be affecting your mouth’s appearance and function
• Have tested over-the-counter mouthguards and are unhappy with the results
• Are also experiencing sore throat, teeth grinding, and gum disease

Here at Southdown Dental in Mississauga, ON, we offer custom oral appliances that may help manage your sleep apnea. To learn more about how the process works and how your dentist can help, get in touch with us today at