We’re so excited to announce the official launch of our new sleep website called Apollonia Breathe Clinic – a space devoted to all things sleep and breathing. And you’re probably wondering, what the heck does my dentist know about sleep?!? The concept of dental sleep medicine has been around for quite awhile but it has only started to gain momentum in the last few years. Dr. Lee and all of the staff at Apollonia have dedicated a significant amount of time learning more about this important topic!
So what is sleep apnea?
Sleep Apnea is a condition that causes abnormal breathing while sleeping. The word “apnea” means ‘temporary cessation of breathing’, so sleep apnea refers to pauses in breathing that can happen while sleeping. These pauses can last for 10 seconds or more and can happen multiple times (even hundreds of times) throughout the night. This disturbance during sleep can result in lower-quality sleep and affect the body’s supply of oxygen, which can lead to potentially serious health conditions. Studies have shown that sleep apnea is associated with a higher risk of many systemic diseases and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia, heart failure, obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and depression.
Why should my dentist care about it?
You might wonder why your dentist should care about the way you sleep and breathe. As oral health professionals, we are constantly looking into people’s mouths, checking airways, and noticing breathing patterns. As such, we may notice things that other health professionals can miss! In fact, this topic is so important to us that we include it as part of your yearly dental check-ups. In Alberta, dentists are qualified to administer at-home sleep screening devices to patients. We work as part of an interdisciplinary team that consists of family doctors, cardiologists, ENT’s, and sleep medicine specialists to provide a thorough and well-rounded approach to your sleep!
In Alberta, dentists are not allowed to diagnose sleep apnea. We provide the instruments and education necessary to get you on the right pathway. At Apollonia, we work with a highly skilled dual trained Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT), and Sleep Medicine specialist, who diagnoses and provides treatment recommendations.
I can’t sleep with those uncomfortable sleep tests!
If you’ve ever had a sleep study done, you know what we’re talking about – they are big, clunky, and just plain uncomfortable! It’s hard to imagine how you can get a good nights rest with that equipment strapped to you. Well, we have a solution for you! At Apollonia, we use a small ring device that sits comfortably on your finger – that’s it. It hooks up to an app, and we get your results electronically, which are then sent to the specialist. No fuss, no wires, no straps. It really can be that easy!
I’ve been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea, now what?
There are multiple options to dealing with sleep apnea depending on what your diagnosis is. Once your diagnosis and results have been sent to us by our sleep medicine specialist, Dr. Lee will go over your options with you. This can range from anywhere between getting a CPAP or Oral Sleep Appliance to discussing simple sleep tips and tricks with you.
If your diagnosis warrants treatment, for some people a CPAP is recommended and for others, we may recommend an Oral Sleep Appliance. We work with you to find the best treatment for your diagnosis!
So what is an Oral Sleep Appliance (OAT)?
These devices are made and designed specifically for your mouth. They are small, discrete, and easy to take care of. There is an upper and lower appliance that helps maintain your jaw in a position that allows for less airway obstruction while you sleep. Unlike a CPAP, with an OAT there are no tubes, masks, nasal cannulas, or machines. Cleaning it is as simple as brushing it with a toothbrush! It’s portable and perfect to bring on vacations or camping.
Are you ready to get tested for sleep apnea or have questions about this condition? Click here to try our sleep quiz and here to book your FREE sleep consultation now!