Sleep apnea is when you either breathe shallowly or completely stop breathing during sleep. The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. OSA is caused by a physical obstruction in the airway, typically loose or enlarged tissue or an enlarged uvula (uvulitis.) Airway muscles naturally relax during sleep; in certain circumstances they can relax too much. This produces snoring at best, and complete airway obstruction at worst.

This obstruction in the airway means that carbon dioxide builds up in the blood. After a certain point, the brain detects these levels and briefly awakens the person to allow carbon dioxide to be exhaled. This brief awakening is characterized by a choking or snorting sound that is easily noticed by sleeping partners (which is how most patients first seek treatment.) This shock disrupts REM sleep, the most important and restful part of the sleep cycle.

Though the structure and rigidity of the airway are often a product of the genetic lottery, certain lifestyle choices like smoking or diet exacerbate the condition. Obesity and allergies also contribute.

The most obvious effect of sleep apnea is tiredness; the repeated moments of waking prevent a good night’s rest. This makes sufferers more likely to be depressed and irritable underperform at work, and get in car accidents.

Because it deprives the body of oxygen, sleep apnea has long-term, powerful effects on your cardiovascular system. The additional strain raises your risk for heart attacks and stroke, and can cause shortness of breath during physical activity. It also increases the likelihood of type 2 diabetes and liver problems.

Sleep apnea also has social consequences. The loud, distinct snoring can be very embarrassing, and sleep partners will also have their sleep disturbed.

A number of treatments are available for sleep apnea. One of the most common is a CPAP machine, which forces pressurized air down the throat. Surgical options are also available.

But the simplest and usually most affordable treatment is to get an oral appliance. Oral appliances are custom fitted mouth structures that mechanically push your jawline forward, affecting the width of the airway and reducing obstructions.

Oral appliances are attractive because they are comfortable, require no shots or anesthesia, and can be fitted in as few as two appointments with a certified dentist. Klooster Family Dentistry is proud to offer oral appliances to our patients with sleep apnea.