Sleep apnea in Greenbrier is more than loud snoring or tiredness throughout the day. If left untreated, it’s a medical condition that can significantly impact your health. For residents of Greenbrier, understanding the seriousness of sleep apnea and how to seek treatment is crucial to improving quality of life.
At Deal Family Dental, led by the trusted Dr. Stephen Deal, we’re committed to helping our patients overcome the challenges of sleep apnea with personalized care and advanced treatment options. This blog will explain sleep apnea, its potential health impacts, and how we can help.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea in Greenbrier is when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can last a few seconds to several minutes, significantly disrupting your rest without you even realizing it.
Dr. Stephen Deal, a Greenbrier-based dental expert, explains that while snoring is often the most noticeable symptom, sleep apnea goes much deeper. It’s a condition that requires attention, not just for peaceful sleep, but for overall well-being.
The Different Types of Sleep Apnea
There are three main types of sleep apnea, each with unique causes and characteristics. Understanding the kind you may have can guide the right treatment approach.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form, caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, which block the airway. Snoring and gasping for air are common symptoms.
- Central Sleep Apnea: Unlike OSA, central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles controlling breathing. This type is rarer and often linked to underlying medical conditions.
- Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea.
How Serious is Sleep Apnea?
If you think sleep apnea is just about missing a little sleep or bothering your partner with occasional snoring, think again. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to significant health risks and reduced quality of life.
People living in Greenbrier know the value of maintaining good health and recognize the seriousness of sleep apnea, which is a step toward better long-term well-being.
Health Risks Associated with Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition that goes beyond poor sleep. Without proper treatment, it can pave the way for several debilitating health issues, including but not limited to:
- High Blood Pressure: Repeated oxygen levels can increase blood pressure, straining the cardiovascular system.
- Heart Disease and Stroke: Sleep apnea is a significant risk factor for stroke and heart problems, including an irregular heartbeat and heart attack.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea can interfere with glucose metabolism, substantially increasing the risk of developing diabetes.
- Daytime Fatigue: Lack of restful sleep can lead to chronic fatigue, which reduces productivity and increases the risk of accidents.
- Mood Disorders: Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
- Headaches, Ear Pain and Jaw Pain: sleep apnea is a significant factor in patients who experience headaches, jaw pain and TMJ type symptoms. Dr. Stephen Deal is the only double board certified practitioner in both Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine in the State of Arkansas.
How Deal Family Dental Can Help
At Deal Family Dental, we understand the toll sleep apnea can take on your health and well-being. We also know that treating this condition doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Dr. Stephen Deal and his team offer tailored treatment options to help Greenbrier residents regain restful sleep and take control of their health.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Many people might not associate their dentist with sleep apnea treatment, but Dr. Deal’s expertise bridges the gap. Identifying sleep apnea and getting the right treatment begins with a simple consultation.
- Screening and Diagnosis: We’ll review your symptoms, medical history, and sleep patterns thoroughly. We may also recommend a sleep study to determine whether you have sleep apnea and which type affects you.
- Custom Oral Appliances: For many cases of obstructive sleep apnea, a custom-fit oral appliance can be the key to a better night’s sleep. These FDA-approved devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open while you rest.
- Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: Our team works closely with other healthcare professionals, such as sleep specialists, to ensure you receive the best comprehensive care for your needs.
Benefits of Seeking Treatment at Deal Family Dental
Choosing Deal Family Dental for sleep apnea treatment offers a range of advantages. Our Greenbrier practice prioritizes patient-centric care with solutions customized to your unique situation. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
- Personalized Care: We treat you like family, tailoring treatment plans to meet your preferences and goals.
- Advanced Technology: Our practice uses the latest dental and sleep therapy technology to ensure effective care.
- Convenient Treatment: Custom oral appliances are non-invasive, easy to use, and a simple alternative to bulky CPAP machines.
- Expert Guidance: Dr. Deal and his team guide you every step of the way, answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
We believe that everyone in Greenbrier, AR, deserves to enjoy the benefits of quality sleep and better health.
Sleep Apnea in Greenbrier
If you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. At Deal Family Dental, we help you breathe, sleep, and live better. Addressing your sleep apnea can protect your health and help you regain control of your daily life.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephen Deal today to discover your options for managing sleep apnea and achieving the restful sleep you deserve. If you are curious about other services we offer, check out our cosmetic, restorative, and preventative treatments!