What is Sleep Apnea?
The breathing disorder sleep apnea is characterized by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep. The condition can be serious and potentially life-threatening if left untreated.
The sound we recognize as snoring occurs when palatal tissues in our partially blocked airway start to vibrate. If the airway is completely blocked for certain periods of time, obstructive sleep apnea can develop. This disorder poses a significant health risk for patients since it can lead to heart problems.
Our dentists can recommend dental appliances for patients who have received a sleep apnea diagnosis from a physician. We can determine your issue and help you decide which option is for you.
Meet Our Dentist
Dr. David Stock treats patients with sleep apnea at our Swift Current dental office. He can assess your specific circumstances and recommend appropriate options for treatment to help improve your health, sleep and quality of life. Options may include dental appliances.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea can cause several symptoms such as:
- Lack of energy
- Extremely loud snoring
- Irritability
- Heartburn
- Memory loss or memory problems
- Awakening with dry mouth or headache
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Chronic sleepiness during the day
- Cardiovascular disease
- Depression
Not only is snoring problematic for the patient, it can also cause issues for anyone sleeping near them. Because obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition, it's critical that it be treated properly.
Dr. David Stock at Anchor Dental Group can work with you to evaluate the nature and complexity of your case, then offer appropriate treatment options.
Treating Sleep Apnea
Potential treatments for sleep apnea include:
Panthera Dental Appliances
Panthera D-SAD™ digital sleep apnea devices shift the tongue and lower jaw muscles to open the airway.
Made with medical-grade nylon and digitally printed, these custom-fitted oral appliances adapt to your mouth and teeth. They help improve your airflow and prevent you from waking throughout the night.
CPAP Machine
Continuous Positive Air Pressure Machines are electronic devices that use an internal fan to draw in outside air.
The air is then humidified and pressurized before being sent to the user through a connective base. The patient uses a face mask to breathe in the air.