At Flatiron Dental, we strive to illuminate the intricate link between oral health and overall well-being. We're shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of health—Sleep Apnea—and offer cutting-edge dental technology and practical and comfortable solutions that can positively influence quality of life and overall health.
You may have seen commercials mentioning sleep apnea, individuals using CPAP machines, and other alternative equipment and devices. But do you genuinely understand sleep apnea and its consequences for general and oral health?
Recognizing the significance of sleep apnea and its effects on health is pivotal for maintaining overall well-being. Sleep apnea, marked by pauses or shallow breathing during sleep, not only disrupts sleep patterns but also contributes to daytime fatigue and can lead to severe health issues, if unaddressed, like hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cognitive impairment. As dentists, we see the impact on the airway and related issues like dry mouth, gum disease, and teeth grinding.
With this new knowledge about sleep apnea and its implications for oral health, Flatiron Dental provides innovative dental technologies and recommends practical, comfortable solutions.
The Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is an advanced dental appliance designed to aid individuals with airway obstruction issues commonly associated with sleep apnea. It gently adjusts the lower jaw during sleep, preventing airway collapse and promoting unobstructed breathing. This helps alleviate symptoms such as snoring and interrupted breathing, improving sleep quality and overall well-being. The MAD is custom-fitted, discreet, and easily adjustable for maximum comfort and effectiveness. At Flatiron Dental, we offer this innovative solution to empower our patients to address their airway problems and achieve better oral health.
Excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction. It's also advisable to avoid alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, as they can relax the muscles in the throat, exacerbating sleep apnea symptoms. Quitting smoking is crucial, as smoking irritates the airways and increases inflammation. Sleeping on your side instead of your back can help prevent the tongue and soft tissues from shifting backward, potentially obstructing the airway while you sleep.
Maintaining adequate oral hygiene is vital for effectively addressing sleep apnea.Brush your teeth a minimum of two times daily with fluoride toothpaste, use daily flossing to eliminate plaque and food remnants between your teeth, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Neglected dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and dry mouth can exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms by triggering inflammation and irritation in the airways, underscoring the importance of proactive dental care. By prioritizing oral hygiene, you can reduce the risk of dental problems and improve sleep apnea symptoms. Additionally, consider using mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and hydrated, further supporting your oral health.
If you've noticed symptoms like loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or difficulty concentrating, it's time to explore the possibility of Sleep Apnea. Please schedule a consultation at Flatiron Dental by calling 212-390-8224, and let us guide you toward effective, modern solutions.