A condition in which breathing stops periodically during sleep is called sleep apnea. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications such as obesity, high blood pressure, obesity, and stroke.
Since many individuals are not aware they are waking up in the middle of the night because they don’t have enough oxygen, sleep apnea can be hard to pinpoint. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of this condition include severe snoring, insomnia, shortness of breath, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and extreme drowsiness during the day.
There are a variety of causes of sleep apnea. The most common ones include a family history of sleep apnea, obesity, hypothyroidism, a deviated septum, allergies, and excessive amount of growth hormones. Individuals who smoke or drink too much alcohol may be at risk for developing sleep apnea as well.
Invisalign or traditional braces do not cause sleep apnea. In addition, they cannot improve this condition. If you are in need of sleep apnea treatment, it is in your best interest to visit our office. We can perform an exam and recommend a viable treatment plan.
In most cases, sleep apnea treatment involves an appliance that you will need to wear at night over your teeth in order to keep your airways clear. Since a traditional appliance cannot typically fit over Invisalign or braces, we can suggest a special appliance or another solution. Our orthodontist in Raleigh, NC colleague, Dr. Jason Gladwell, reiterates that Invisalign nor braces will not cause sleep apnea.
Contact Costa Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or believe you may have this condition, reach out to our office today by calling 703-439-1214.