Did You Know Your Dentist Can Help with Sleep Apnea?

Dear Patients,

This month, I would like to talk about your general health concern that dentist can help and screen. Cases of Sleep apnea is rapidly arising in US due to lifestyle, obesity, stress and so forth. It can be life-threatening and greatly affect the quality of life.

Are you constantly tired, even after a full night's sleep? Do you snore loudly, or has someone told you that you stop breathing during the night? If so, you could be suffering from a common condition called sleep apnea.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. This depletes your body of oxygen and disrupts your natural sleep patterns, leading to:

• Daytime fatigue
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
• Shorted life expectancy

The Dentist's Role in Sleep Apnea Treatment

While you might associate sleep apnea with doctors and CPAP machines, dentists play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment!

Here's how we can help:

• Screening: We can conduct simple screenings to assess your risk for sleep apnea.
• Oral appliances: For mild to moderate sleep apnea, we offer custom-fit oral appliances that gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open for better breathing.
• Collaboration: We work closely with sleep physicians to ensure you get the most effective treatment plan possible.

Don't Ignore the Signs

Untreated sleep apnea has significant health consequences. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don't hesitate to talk to us. We can help you determine if you need a more formal evaluation and guide you down the path to better sleep and improved health.

Special Offer: Mention this newsletter to receive a free sleep apnea screening at your next appointment!

We truly wish for the general well-being of our patients, not just your oral health.

Sincerely,

Yohan Kim, DMD, FICOI

Author

Dr. Yohan Kim Dr. Kim graduated from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine Top of the Class and extended his training in General Practice Residency at Bellevue Hospital Center. He has been a faculty at AIC implant training center and lectures in US and Canada. He has been part-time clinical instructor at NYU Implantology program. as well as at GPR program at Bellevue hospital center. He truly believes that education and better knowledge empower our patients.