Your dentist warns you about a lot of things. Not brushing and flossing enough, eating too much too often, and skipping your dental checkups are among the more common warnings. What you might not realize, however, is that if your dentist knew you snore, you may also be warned about the dangers of not having your condition checked out and treated. As a general dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith has helped many patients stop snoring through customized dental treatment, usually in the form of an appliance that helps keep your airway clear while you sleep.
Facts About Snoring and Sleep Apnea
- Snoring occurs when nasal and oral tissues collapse into your airway when you sleep, partially blocking it. The noise is actually the sound of the walls and tissues in your throat vibrating, coupled with the sound of air struggling through a narrow space.
- Sometimes, the obstruction can totally obstruct your airway and force you to stop breathing. When this happens consistently, the condition is known as obstructive sleep apnea, and can pose a serious threat to your systemic wellbeing.
- Even in the absence of sleep apnea, snoring can increase certain risks to your cardiovascular system by restricting your intake of oxygen. Over time, the exertion to breathe and the diminished oxygen can begin to affect your vital systems, and lead to fatigue, illness, and other symptoms.
- The answer to stop snoring can often be found at your dentist’s office. Yet, if you have a severe case of sleep apnea, then you may require more specialized treatment at the hands of an oral surgeon. To find out how serious your snoring is, and to achieve, quieter, more peaceful sleep, visit us as soon as possible for a thorough examination.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE GENERAL DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
