Sleep Better and Live Better with Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by stop-and-start breathing cycles while you sleep. While sleep apnea affects millions of Canadians, it often goes undiagnosed, leading to further health complications.
Have you been diagnosed with sleep apnea? Schedule an appointment with Family Dental Care Mississauga. Our doctors offer effective sleep apnea treatment in Mississauga, Ontario, to ensure you enjoy a healthier, happier life.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can be obstructive, central, or a mix of both. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common, and it occurs when the airway closes when sleeping, disrupting breathing. This airway blockage commonly occurs when the tongue and other soft tissues in the throat relax excessively during sleep.
During an apneic attack, breathing pauses for a frightening 10 seconds or longer, and these episodes can repeat even hundreds of times throughout the night. Each time this happens, your body briefly awakes to restore normal breathing. While you might not fully remember these awakenings, you may wake up gasping, choking, or feeling short of breath. These constant interruptions prevent you from reaching the deep, restful stages of sleep. That’s why you wake up tired, groggy, and unfocused during the day despite a full night’s sleep.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can be definitively diagnosed by a board-certified sleep physician, family physician, or pulmonologist with a sleep test at home or a sleep study center. However, watch out for the following signs and seek immediate medical attention.
- Chronic snoring
- Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Choking or gasping for air at night
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
- Decreased sex drive
Over time, untreated sleep apnea can contribute to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and poor cognitive function. Also, poor concentration during the day increases the risk of accidents at work or on the road.
How do we treat sleep apnea?
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is often the go-to treatment for mild to moderate OSA. A CPAP machine delivers a constant air stream through a mask worn over the nose or mouth during sleep. This airflow keeps the airway open, ensuring a steady oxygen supply throughout the night.
While CPAP therapy is effective, it isn’t popular with many patients. The mask can feel uncomfortable, the machine can be noisy, and some people find it difficult to adjust to sleeping with the device. Additionally, issues like dry mouth, nasal congestion, or feelings of claustrophobia can make consistent use challenging.
At Family Dental Care in Mississauga, our dentists offer an effective treatment for sleep apnea using oral appliance therapy (OAT). OAT uses a custom retainer-like device to reposition the tongue and lower jaw. This creates space in the airway, supporting healthy breathing when sleeping. Many patients love sleep apnea nightguards because they are comfortable, discreet, and simple to use and maintain.
Do you need sleep apnea treatment near Mississauga?
Since sleep apnea can significantly impact your health, seeking treatment from qualified professionals is essential. Our sleep apnea dentist provides effective solutions to help you live a happier and healthier life. Call (289) 813-3441 and book an appointment with Family Dental Care Mississauga if you suspect sleep apnea.
