Sleep Apnea and Sleep Deprivation Relief in Wilmington, DE
Are you among the many millions of people suffering from sleep deprivation? This is often a result of sleep apnea, a condition in which a person's airway becomes obstructed and cuts off their air supply. A new two-piece dental insert, which is as comfortable as a small dental retainer, could be your answer. This is nothing like the huge appliances called CPAPs that have been used in the past. If you are searching for "a dentist near me" who treats sleep apnea, make an appointment today by calling 302-994-2660 and be on your way to a better night's sleep!
Sleep deprivation is not just a matter of getting fewer hours of sleep and feeling tired the next day. If it were, we could all get by on more coffee. The effects of sleep deprivation are much more far-reaching. According to a study conducted at the University of Chicago, sleep disruption affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This can raise the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, among other medical problems.
The cessation of airflow caused by sleep apnea and heavy snoring causes a temporary lack of oxygen in the body. This can have lasting health effects. Of primary concern is the increased risk of heart rate variability, heart attack, or stroke.
Causes and Effects of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can also result in reductions in body temperature and a lowered immune system function. It can even shorten your life expectancy! People with sleep apnea are jolted out of their deep, nourishing REM sleep to regain their breath. This continued interruption throughout the night can seriously affect the body's ability to function the next day. Alertness, memory, and concentration are easily broken, and patients can suffer from fatigue and poor production. Perhaps even more alarming are the reports we have all read reports about sleep apnea patients falling asleep at the wheel of a car or causing an accident.
Very often, sleep deprivation is caused by snoring. You may not even be aware that you snore! But the same effects of sleep apnea can also apply to patients who snore heavily. Snoring is caused by an airway that is partially obstructed. Like sleep apnea, snoring can be linked to cases of heart attack, stroke, hypertension, and high blood pressure. Partners of patients who snore heavily also lose sleep!
An innovation in dental appliances has made it possible to reduce and sometimes eliminate snoring and sleep apnea. These appliances are small and may remind you of an orthodontic retainer. At your first dental appointment, Dr. Gladnick will take upper and lower impressions as well as a bite registration. His lab will then fashion the appliance to your particular anatomy, and your "retainer" will be custom-made to suit your needs. Dr. Gladnick will ensure that your appliance is comfortable before you leave the office. Your dental insert will have the effect of discouraging a low tongue position, which is often responsible for blocking your airway. Dr. Gladnick will be sure to follow up with you to make sure that you are comfortable and able to wear your personal retainer all night.
