Are you getting a good night’s sleep?

Do you or your partner snore during sleep? Or awaken feeling groggy and tired most mornings?494367841

Columbus dentist Dr. Albert Caves offers treatment for patients who snore, bringing relief from symptoms and a good night’s sleep for all!

Snoring is not just the result of a stuffy nose or bad sleeping position, it can also signal a health concern called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) that has been linked to a greater risk of stroke, heart disease and other physical health issues. Patients who suffer from OSA actually stop breathing momentarily during sleep, depriving their organs of much needed oxygen, and restart with a loud snore.

OSA is frequently the result of a blocked airway and is more common in patients who are overweight or have enlarged tonsils. OSA is often undiagnosed, but there are several key symptoms that many experience and that should be brought to the attention of your doctor or dentist:

  • Loud snoring- sometimes only noticed by family members
  • Morning headaches
  • Feeling groggy or unable to concentrate, even after a “good night’s sleep”
  • Sleepiness during the day or while driving
  • Insomnia or frequently waking up at night
  • A consistent sore or dry throat in the morning

Dr. Caves works with a patient’s regular physician to help them diagnose a possible sleep disorder such as OSA. In some cases, patients may perform a test at home which can be analyzed by their physician and coordinated with Dr. Caves for treatment with an oral appliance, or snore guard.

While the CPap machine is often recommended and considered the “gold standard” for treatment of OSA, oral appliance therapy can also be very effective. Most patients prefer oral appliance therapy for comfort reasons and will be more likely to use it on a consistent basis: an important part of any treatment.

OSA can be a debilitating health issue when unresolved, affecting daily life for many as well as posing health risks. Discuss your concerns during a visit with Dr. Caves and restore your health with a better night’s sleep!