Do you snore at night? Are you constantly waking up from what seems like a great night’s sleep but don’t feel refreshed? If so, you could be suffering from undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that poses a significant danger to both physical and mental health. If you are in the Briargate, Colorado, area and are seeking a dentist “near me” who can treat your sleep apnea, you should consider Dr. Chris Brady and the team at Dental Health and Wellness. If you are looking for a way to treat your obstructive sleep apnea that doesn’t include a bulky, loud, and uncomfortable CPAP machine, devices like the Vivos Oral Appliance can be the answer!
Let’s look at some of the dangers of obstructive sleep apnea and how an oral appliance can help.
Dangers of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):
- Cardiovascular Risks: Obstructive sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. The repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep can lead to elevated blood pressure and strain on the cardiovascular system, contributing to long-term cardiovascular issues
- Daytime Fatigue and Impaired Cognitive Function: The interrupted sleep patterns characteristic of OSA result in daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive function. Individuals with untreated OSA often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues. This can impact daily activities, work performance, and overall quality of life
- Metabolic Consequences: OSA is associated with metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The hormonal imbalances triggered by sleep apnea can disrupt glucose metabolism, contributing to insulin resistance and the onset of diabetes
- Weight Gain and Obesity: There is a bidirectional relationship between OSA and obesity. While obesity is a risk factor for OSA, the condition can also contribute to weight gain. The sleep disruption and hormonal changes associated with OSA can affect appetite regulation and metabolism, potentially leading to weight gain
- Impact on Mental Health: OSA is linked to mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. The chronic sleep deprivation and oxygen desaturation experienced by individuals with OSA can have a negative impact on mood and mental well-being, exacerbating existing mental health conditions
- Increased Risk of Accidents: Daytime sleepiness resulting from OSA increases the risk of accidents on the road and in occupational settings. Individuals with untreated OSA are more prone to nodding off during the day, posing a danger to themselves and others
How A Vivos Oral Appliance Can Help:
The Vivos Oral Appliance is an innovative and non-invasive solution designed to address the underlying causes of obstructive sleep apnea.
Here are some ways in which the Vivos appliance can help mitigate the dangers associated with OSA:
- Airway Remodeling: The Vivos appliance works by promoting natural airway remodeling. It stimulates the development of the upper airway and encourages proper jaw and facial bone growth. By addressing the anatomical factors contributing to OSA, the Vivos appliance helps create a more open and stable airway
- Improved Breathing Patterns: The appliance facilitates improved breathing patterns by enhancing nasal breathing and reducing reliance on mouth breathing. This can lead to better airflow, decreased airway resistance, and a reduction in the severity of sleep apnea events
- Customized Treatment Plans: Vivos providers create customized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique anatomy and needs. The individualized approach ensures that the appliance is tailored to the specific requirements of the patient, optimizing its effectiveness in addressing OSA
- Non-Invasive and Comfortable: Unlike traditional OSA treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or surgery, the Vivos appliance is non-invasive and comfortable to wear. This increases patient compliance and adherence to treatment, improving the likelihood of long-term success
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients who use the Vivos appliance often report improved sleep quality, reduced daytime fatigue, and enhanced cognitive function. This, in turn, leads to a better quality of life and increased ability to engage in daily activities without the hindrance of sleep-related issues
Request an Appointment
To learn more about oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea in the Briargate, CO area, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Brady today by calling (719) 215-9292.
