Addressing Sleep Apnea with Expert Care
Struggling to get restful sleep? Waking up feeling fatigued or concerned about your snoring? You might be experiencing sleep apnea. This severe condition affects not only your energy and alertness but can also increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
At Big Sky Smiles & Sedation in Missoula, MT, we’re dedicated to improving lives through exceptional dental care, including specialized treatment for sleep apnea. Recognizing the vital role of quality sleep in your overall well-being, we use advanced techniques to help manage sleep apnea so you can enjoy better rest and a healthier, more vibrant life.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder marked by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea, happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much and block airflow.
Various factors can increase the likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea. These include smoking, having a family history of the condition, aging, being male, and carrying excess weight, particularly around the abdomen and neck. Conditions such as enlarged tonsils, narrowed airways, hypertension, and hormonal imbalances can also contribute to the risk of this disorder.
Our Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
CPAP Machine
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are commonly prescribed for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. These devices deliver a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep, helping to keep the airways open and prevent breathing interruptions.
Regular use of a CPAP machine can significantly improve sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue, and lower the risk of associated health complications. While some users may initially find it uncomfortable, many adapt to the machine over time and experience the benefits of restful sleep.
Panthera X3™
The Panthera X3 is an FDA-cleared solution to effectively treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Positioning the lower jaw forward during sleep helps alleviate snoring and manage mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
This innovative device is worn comfortably at night, allowing for a restful sleep experience. Patients using the Panthera X3™ often report improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms associated with sleep apnea.
The Effects of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Failing to address sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications. The repeated pauses in breathing during sleep result in reduced oxygen levels in the body, significantly damaging the heart and cardiovascular system. This increased pressure raises the likelihood of developing conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and arrhythmias. In addition to these risks, sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime sleepiness, hinder cognitive performance, elevate the risk of accidents, and negatively impact overall quality of life.
Without appropriate treatment, individuals with sleep apnea may also face a greater risk of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and mood disorders, including depression. Understanding these potential health impacts highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention to safeguard sleep quality and long-term health.
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