SLEEP APNOEA AND SNORING

Your snoring can lead to bigger & more serious health issues

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What is sleep apnoea?

Sleep apnoea occurs when there is a lack of oxygen passing through from the lungs to the brain. The sleeper will awaken, to open up the airway by snorting and gasping, and quickly fall back to sleep. Often people suffering from sleep apnoea don’t realize they are awakening to do this, so unfortunately it can happen numerous times during the night.

It is estimated that about 5% of Australians suffer from this condition and are unaware of it.

 

Do you have sleep apnoea?

  • list icon Snoring
  • list icon Choking and gasping when asleep
  • list icon Pauses in breathing when asleep
  • list icon Morning headaches
  • list icon Restless sleep
  • list icon Sleepiness during the day
  • list icon Irritability and mood swings
  • list icon Insomnia due to difficulty staying asleep
  • list icon Waking up with a sore throat/dry mouth
  • list icon Frequent need to urinate during the night
  • list icon Trouble concentrating
  • list icon Memory/learning problems

 

TYPES OF SLEEP APNOEA

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

This is the more common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax excessively, leading to a temporary blockage or narrowing of the airway. As a result, breathing is interrupted or significantly reduced, causing brief awakenings throughout the night to restore proper breathing. Loud snoring is a common symptom of OSA.

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Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

This type of sleep apnea is less common and differs from OSA in its underlying cause. In CSA, the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles responsible for controlling breathing. As a result, individuals with CSA may experience pauses in breathing during sleep without the physical obstruction seen in OSA. It’s often associated with medical conditions affecting the central nervous system, such as certain neurological disorders.

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How can we help?

Oral appliance therapy is often used when the patient is unable to tolerate or refuses CPAP therapy. It has been proven very effective for snoring and those suffering mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea. Oral appliance therapy may also be used in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnoea (who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy). There are two types of oral appliance therapy:

Mandibular Advancement Device

The most common type of oral appliance used. They are also known as Mandibular Advance Splint or Mandibular Repositioning Device. This repositions the jaw in a forward position to maintain a clear airway.

Tongue Retaining/Stabilizing Device

Engages and holds the tongue in a forward position by means of a suction bulb, without affecting the mandible or teeth. When the tongue is in a forward position, it prevents the back of the tongue from collapsing during sleep and obstructing the airway in the throat. Tongue retaining/stabilising devices are non-adjustable.

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Can’t seem to sleep at night? We can help

 

Lifestyle changes you can make

  • list icon Exercise
  • list icon Weight loss
  • list icon Good sleep hygiene (i.e. having regular sleeping patterns, avoiding caffeine and eating large meals late at night)
  • list icon Sleeping position- sleeping on your side is helpful
  • list icon Avoid sedatives and tranquilizers such as sleeping pills
  • list icon Avoid alcohol
  • list icon Avoid smoking

 

How common is snoring?

Snoring is quite common, with approximately 40% of men and 30% of women affected. Snoring occurs in all age groups but is most common in the middle-aged population. In children, large tonsils and adenoids are a common cause of snoring. Factors that contribute to snoring include:

  • list icon Obesity
  • list icon Alcohol and sedative use
  • list icon Nasal congestion
  • list icon Breathing through the mouth
  • list icon Sleeping on your back
  • list icon Allergies and hay fever
  • list icon Smoking
  • list icon Abnormality of the upper airway or orofacial structure
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How serious is snoring?

While snoring can be harmless in the short-term, it can also develop into or be a symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Snoring is also a major lifestyle and social problem for partners and families. Snoring deprives both the sufferer and their bed partner of good sleep, which has consequences for daytime functioning.

Snoring in children may be a sign of poor oxygen levels, which results in the body constantly waking up, leading to poor quality/restless sleep. This can lead to a lack of concentration at school, or poor energy and stamina levels. Sometimes, it can also contribute to, or be misdiagnosed as, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). At Purity Dental, we can help you determine if your snoring is caused by sleep apnoea and guide you on the steps you need to take to manage this condition, or refer you to the help you need to get a possible medical condition diagnosed.

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WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TREAT SLEEP APNOEA?

Treating sleep apnoea is vital due to its negative effects on physical and mental health. Addressing it leads to improved sleep quality, reduced risks of cardiovascular issues, enhanced cognitive function, better mood, increased energy, and a higher quality of life.

Treatment also reduces risks of accidents that may come about due to exhaustion and fatigue, and prevents complications like heart disease. Seeking medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial.

EXCEPTIONAL ORAL HEALTH AT PURITY DENTAL

At Purity Dental, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional dental care that goes beyond the ordinary. Our team of experienced and caring dental professionals keeps up with the latest advancements in dental technology. Our clinic is also equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment for efficient treatments.

From general dentistry to specialised treatments like orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, preventative dentistry, dental emergency services and more, we offer a wide range of dental solutions under one roof.

Your smile matters and so do you. Come visit us and make your smile the best it can be!

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