Sleep apnea is a common disorder that impacts a person’s breathing while they sleep. Many people with this condition sleep with a breathing machine to ensure quality sleep. However, this disorder has several other symptoms, such as snoring or teeth grinding. A specialized dentist can be crucial in helping you with your condition. Let's take a look at a few things a sleep apnea dentist can do to help you.

Learn Your History

People visit the dentist for many things, including sleep apnea. These dentists specialize in helping patients with this particular disorder. The first step is often a consultation. Dentists will ask you several questions to help determine how likely you are to have sleep apnea. They may ask about your sleeping habits and family medical history.

Conduct a Proper Test

Sleep apnea dentists can also help schedule an appointment to test you for sleep apnea. This involves examining you while you sleep to determine whether you have the condition. A dentist will also note if you have other signs of the condition, such as teeth grinding. Having a proper diagnosis opens the door to various treatment options.

Provide Dental Help

Teeth grinding is one of the most common sleep apnea symptoms. However, this can slowly wreak havoc on your oral hygiene. Grinding your teeth results in excessive wear and tear, leading to enamel loss. The lack of enamel means your teeth are not as protected against cavities and tooth decay.

Supply You With Appliances

Oral appliances can occasionally help patients with sleep apnea. This type of treatment is non-invasive and often recommended for patients who are unable to use CPAP therapy. Special devices are fitted for the mouth to help keep the airways open while a person is sleeping. A dentist can help you learn to use these devices and determine if they effectively treat your condition.

Schedule Follow-Up Appointments

Your sleep apnea dentist will continue to work with you throughout your treatment to determine effective treatment methods. They will discuss your other symptoms and help you address them to protect your teeth. According to the CDC, 64.1% of adults over 18 had a routine dental cleaning or exam in the past twelve months. It's essential for people who grind their teeth to have regular exams, and your dentist will follow up with you to help you remember to schedule them.

Sleep apnea is a condition that must be treated appropriately. We specialize in testing and treating many dental concerns. Contact Ocean Atlantic Dental today to schedule an appointment.