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Sleep apnea and snoring

Transform your nights to regain both your vitality and invigorating energy.

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Sleep apnea and snoring

Sleep apnea syndrome is very common in Quebec. Patients who suffer from it experience breathing difficulties during sleep, making their sleep uncomfortable and non-restorative.

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Cause

Sleep apnea is caused by a physical obstruction of the airways.

This can be caused by the collapse of soft tissues at the back of the mouth and throat. If the jaw is too small to accommodate the tongue, it may tend to fall back, further restricting the airways and hindering the flow of air. As you inhale and exhale, the soft tissues in the throat vibrate, resulting in the sound of snoring. In more severe cases, such as with sleep apnea, there are episodes of complete cessation of breathing for 10 seconds or more.

When breathing stops, oxygen levels in the blood decrease, forcing the heart to work harder, leading to an increase in blood pressure.

Symptoms:
  • Snoring
  • Fatigue upon waking up
  • Dry mouth/throat
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Irritability
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
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Consequences

Some of the conditions associated with sleep apnea include high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, acid reflux, depression, and diabetes.

In addition to the person with this syndrome, it is also observed that immediate family members are affected by the problem as well.

Treatments

There are several solutions that can help improve your sleep. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery, or a mandibular advancement device (oral appliance) are treatment options to address this condition.

At Centre Dentaire Repentigny, Dr. Carrier offers orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery as well as the provision of a mandibular advancement device. This custom-made device helps advance the lower jaw and open the airway. It is worn at night to prevent the jaw from falling back during sleep. This type of treatment can be very useful in cases of moderate sleep apnea or when the patient cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

To determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Carrier will evaluate your situation using various tests, X-rays, and measurements, and provide recommendations and a treatment plan.

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