If you snore, but no one hears you, would you consider it a problem? If you don’t wake yourself up at night, then you might not, but sometimes, snoring can be a symptom of a more serious sleep disorder, like obstructive sleep apnea. Both snoring and sleep apnea are caused by throat muscles and oral tissues collapsing into the airway, partially or completely obstructing your breathing. With a comfortable, custom-designed snore guard, Dr. Noble can help you treat your sleep apnea so you can finally breathe easily and rest peacefully throughout the night.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, then Dr. Noble may recommend undergoing a professional, overnight sleep study. Highly-experienced sleep experts will monitor your sleeping patterns and vital signs to determine if obstructive sleep apnea is present, and to what extent. To determine if you might be a candidate for sleep apnea treatment, Dr. Noble will consult with you about the symptoms you exhibit, which may include:
- Daytime fatigue
- Frequent exhaustion
- Inability to concentrate
- Trouble with short-term memory
- Unusual irritability
- Increased instances of illness (due to a weakened immune system)
- And other indications of sleep deprivation
Treatment Planning
Your sleep doctor may recommend a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine and mask, which supplies a steady stream of air pressure to keep your airway open while you sleep. However, Dr. Noble can often provide a more comfortable alternative in the form of a custom-made oral appliance, or snore guard. The appliance will be specially-designed to keep your lower jaw slightly forward but comfortable, and to keep your airway open and prevent oral tissues from collapsing into it.
Visit Dr. Noble’s Office in Highland Park Today!
Dr. Natalee Noble and the staff of Noble Dentistry in Dallas, TX are more than just a team of dental professionals; they’re a family, and one that grows with every new patient! To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling today at 214-522-3110.