Is Sleep Apnea Keeping You Up at Night? Your Dentist Can Help

Do you find yourself constantly tired during the day, even after what you thought was a full night’s sleep? You might be dealing with sleep apnea, a common but serious sleep disorder. At Cottage Hill Dental Care in Elmhurst, IL, we’re not just about keeping your smile bright โ€” we’re also concerned with your overall health and well-being. Let’s dive into how sleep apnea might be affecting you and how our team, led by Dr. Mohammad Al-Asadi, can help you get back to restful nights.

Recognizing the Signs of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring (though that’s often a telltale sign). Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:

โ€ข Excessive daytime sleepiness
โ€ข Morning headaches
โ€ข Difficulty concentrating
โ€ข Mood changes or irritability
โ€ข Waking up gasping or choking
โ€ข Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

If these sound familiar, it might be time to talk to a professional about sleep apnea treatment.

Your Dentist: An Unexpected Ally in Sleep Apnea Care

You might be wondering, “What does my dentist have to do with my sleep?” As it turns out, quite a lot! Dentists are often the first healthcare providers to spot signs of sleep apnea. Here’s how we can help:

1. Screening: During your regular check-ups, we can look for physical indicators of sleep apnea, such as a large tongue, enlarged tonsils, or signs of tooth grinding.

2. Referrals: If we suspect sleep apnea, we can refer you to a sleep specialist for a definitive diagnosis.

3. Treatment: Once diagnosed, we can work with you on effective treatment options.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options at Your Dentist’s Office

At Cottage Hill Dental Care, we offer several approaches to managing sleep apnea:

1. Oral Appliance Therapy: We can create a custom-fitted oral appliance that repositions your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep. These devices are often more comfortable and convenient than traditional CPAP machines.

2. Lifestyle Recommendations: We can suggest changes to your sleep habits or position that might alleviate symptoms.

3. Collaborative Care: We work closely with sleep specialists and your primary care physician to ensure comprehensive treatment.

Remember, untreated sleep apnea isn’t just about feeling tired โ€” it can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. That’s why it’s crucial to address it promptly.

If you’re concerned about sleep apnea or any of the symptoms we’ve discussed, don’t wait to seek help. Give us a call at 630-530-7998 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Al-Asadi. At Cottage Hill Dental Care, we’re committed to helping you achieve not just a healthy smile, but healthy sleep too.

Sweet dreams and restful nights are just a dental visit away!