What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that, by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine estimates, affects 25 million people in the U.S. People who suffer from sleep apnea experience repeated “apneas,” or interruptions to breathing, while they sleep. Several factors are believed to cause sleep apnea, including being overweight, having a tongue that’s too large, or weak airway muscles.
Whatever the cause, sleep apnea is detrimental to your quality of sleep, which impacts daily energy levels and mental focus. It even contributes to more serious health issues since it increases blood pressure and puts strain on the heart.
Symptoms of sleep apnea
- Snoring
- Restless sleep
- Night sweats
- Fatigue during waking hours
- Impaired focus during waking hours
- Headaches
- Waking suddenly with a choking or gasping sensation
- Sore throat or dry mouth when waking
What does a dentist have to do with sleep apnea?
- 5Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
- 5Dry mouth
- 5Advancing periodontal disease
- 5Cavities
How we help
A visit to the dentist is often the first step toward diagnosing untreated sleep apnea since dental issues associated with the sleep disorder are evident during an examination. At Smiles on Hudson, we can diagnose the condition with sleep apnea testing, and we can also offer solutions for sleep apnea treatment.
MAD for Croton-on-Hudson sleep apnea treatment
Our Sleep Apnea Resources
Take an at Home Sleep Test
Take Care of Your Sleep Appliances
Sleep Apnea Questionnaire
Living with Sleep Apnea: Tips and Tricks
Sleep Apnea in Children
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Sleep Apnea: Diet, Exercise, and Stress Reduction
The Importance of Proper Sleep Environment
Traveling with Sleep Apnea: Advice for a Restful Trip
What to expect when getting a MAD fitted with a sleep apnea dentist
- 1. Once the dentist has diagnosed your sleep apnea, you can be fitted for a MAD.
- 2. At your first appointment, dental impressions will be taken on your teeth so that the device can be custom-made to fit your mouth.
- 3. At a follow-up appointment, the finished appliance will be placed in your mouth and adjusted for comfort and effectiveness.
- 4. The dentist will show you how to put the device in your mouth and you can begin using it during sleep immediately.
All your questions, answered
Are MADs painful to wear?
While the oral appliance can be uncomfortable, especially in the beginning before the patient is used to wearing it, pain should never be present while it’s in use. If gum pain presents, this typically means the device needs to be adjusted to fit better. If jaw pain presents, this could indicate the presence of TMJ. The dentist should be informed immediately in this case since patients with TMJ should not use MADs.
Does Health Insurance Cover MADs?
Are there any side effects when using a MAD?
Some minor side effects can be expected when using an oral sleep apnea device:
- Dryness in the mouth
- Excess saliva production
- Stiff jaw
- Minor toothaches
Since the device is kept in place by the patient’s teeth, another risk is that teeth could move out of alignment. The dentist will monitor the patient’s teeth to ensure there is no movement.
Enjoy your time at the dentist
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Meet your dental service provider
“From the time you walk in, you feel comfortable and welcomed. Dr. Gold explains in detail any procedure he’s going to do. I can’t say enough good things.”
Get Started Today
We look forward to welcoming you to our office and providing quality care.
Our Croton-on-Hudson dental office
2018 Albany Post Road
Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
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