Raise your hand if you love to sleep. Me, me, me! Raise your hand if you get enough shuteye every night. Yeah, I didn’t think so. Whether you have kids, a crazy work schedule, or some type of sleep disorder, you know how tough it can be to function on little sleep.
It’s time to dive into sleep problems because we are in the midst of Sleep Awareness Week (March 12-17, 2018). According to the Sleep in America® Poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, one in 10 people considers sleep a top priority compared with other items – below physical fitness, work and hobbies, and essentially the same as socializing. Scary to think how many of us are sleep-deprived while on the job or behind the wheel. To our defense, life is hectic, and reality is that sometimes we sacrifice sleep in order to fulfill certain obligations. Ideally, it’s important to find balance and put sleep higher up on the totem poll. I know… Easier said than done.
Sleep disorders cramp your style.
Whether insomnia leaves you counting sheep, or you suffer from sleep apnea, the quality of your sleep is at stake. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition when a person’s breathing is interrupted (repeatedly stopping and starting) during sleep. “Apnea” is defined as a pause in breathing that lasts at least 10 seconds. The American Sleep Foundation states that over 18 million American adults have sleep apnea. Loud snoring and chronic exhaustion are the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. If sleep apnea goes untreated, it can lead to more serious health issues such as heart problems and high blood pressure.
Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw? Maybe you also suffer from facial/TMJ pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth. These are classic symptoms of bruxism (jaw clenching or teeth grinding). Bruxism is often triggered by anxiety or stress and is classified as “sleep bruxism” and “awake bruxism”, the latter which is less common. Although it might make your skin crawl, gnashing of teeth is an involuntary or subconscious habit.
The dentist to the rescue!
You might be thinking, how can the dentist help me sleep better? Well, since sleep disorders such as bruxism, sleep apnea, and snoring involve the mouth, your dentist can create a custom-made oral appliance or “night guard” to correct the problem by properly positioning the mouth to allow adequate airflow, or to keep the teeth from rubbing together. This might take you back to your childhood days, since an oral appliance is similar to a mouthguard or retainer.
Individuals with serious cases of sleep apnea should always consult their primary care physician. Often times, the doctor will recommend a device called continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), a mask which is worn during the night.
If you are suffering from sleep disorders such as bruxism or sleep apnea, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.