The Dangers of Uncontrolled Sleep Apnea The quality of sleep you get is quite important for the overall well-being of your physical health. Uncontrolled or undiagnosed sleep apnea can increase the risk of problems with metabolic health and cardiovascular issues.With sleep apnea, the upper muscles in the airway can relax while you sleep and cut off your airway, preventing you from breathing. Breathing can completely stop for 10 seconds or more at a time until reflexes kick in to allow you to breathe again. At Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we often help patients who have sleep apnea with oral treatments in the shape of surgery. Dangers of Sleep ApneaHere are some concerns that can increase from sleep apnea. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)Bruxism can occur among people who have sleep apnea. Unconsciously, you might grind your teeth or grip the jaw to counteract the relaxation of the soft palate and tongue that often causes airway obstruction. While this helps people with the symptoms of sleep apnea it can cause cavities, tooth decay, and wear down the tooth. Dry MouthPeople who have sleep apnea tend to sleep with their mouth open, causing dry mouth. Dry mouth can lead to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, plaque, and mouth sores. Our surgeons at Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can help you with such oral conditions with fillings, regular cleanings, and antibiotics. However, these issues will return until you actually treat the sleep apnea properly. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) DisorderTMJ is the joint that connects the skull to the jaw on both sides of the face. Sleep apnea is known to result in TMJ disorders. You might experience teeth grinding, jaw aches, and uncomfortable migraines if you have TMJ. Risk Factors for Sleep ApneaHere are some of the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea that you should be aware of:
How To Treat Sleep ApneaSurf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery offers Maxillomandibular Advancement surgery (MMA). It is known as an effective treatment for people who have obstructive sleep apnea. With MMA, the lower and upper jaw bones are repositioned. Our team will also suspend the pharyngeal airway muscles that are attached to the anterior portion, which increases the tension in the pharyngeal soft tissue. This can open the airway and even expand it laterally, which can prevent future collapse too. It is often recommended for older patients. Call Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at 657-384-2787 to schedule an appointment. |
