Sleep Apnea
Bellevue, WA
You may have heard the term “sleep apnea” before, but how much do you really know about it? Sleep apnea is more than just snoring—it’s a serious condition that disrupts your breathing while you sleep. At A Smiling Heart Dentistry, we’re here to help you understand the signs, causes, and available treatment options for sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. These interruptions prevent your body from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep. As a result, you may feel tired even after a full night’s rest.
Sleep apnea can be caused by various factors, including airway obstructions, poorly formed oral tissues, or even nighttime teeth grinding. Common signs of sleep apnea include excessive daytime fatigue, frequent waking, snoring, and gasping for breath during sleep. If you don’t remember your dreams or constantly feel unrested, it could be a sign of sleep apnea.
Treatment Options
Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity and cause of the condition. Some patients benefit from custom oral appliances worn during sleep to help maintain an open airway. Others may require a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, which delivers constant airflow through a mask. In certain cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to remove or reposition tissue obstructing your airway.
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If you constantly feel tired—even after several nights of sleep—it’s time to talk to us. At A Smiling Heart Dentistry, we’ve helped many patients achieve better rest and healthier lives. Call us at (425) 558-9998 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better sleep.