Do you feel tired, even after a full night’s rest? Does your spouse complain that you snore habitually? These may be signs of a serious sleep-breathing disorder known as sleep apnea. Closely related to snoring, sleep apnea is a lapse in breathing that occurs for 10 seconds or longer during sleep. In addition to interrupting restful slumber, sleep apnea contributes to high blood pressure, heart disease, and even premature death.
I had to use a CPAP machine for the last 5 years every night. Since I travel a lot, it had to go with me everywhere. This meant going through airport security (it had to go in my carryon) and having to find distilled water wherever I landed. The new appliance fits securely in my mouth, is small and easy to carry and doesn’t need anything else. No longer do I have to run a 15 foot extension cord to an electrical outlet across a hotel room or ship cabin, or take a chance on the water leaking in my suitcase. I have used in on trains and planes. It’s hard to believe how convenient and easy to use this new appliance is. Thank you.
Sandra Martin-Goldman
Literally, “without breath,” an apnea is a pause in breathing that occurs when the airways are obstructed. Sleep apnea can be contributed to narrow airways, excessive throat tissue, or tongue and jaw misplacement. Twelve million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, and many more have not been diagnosed.
Recognizing sleep apnea early is important, because it’s been linked to:
Daytime drowsiness
Memory loss
Fatigue
Depression
Irregular heartbeat
High blood pressure
Heart attack and stroke
As your general dentist, Dr. Levenson works with a team of professionals to diagnose and treat snoring and sleep apnea and improve your quality of life. A common treatment for sleep apnea, the CPAP often proves unbearable. Dr. Levenson can create an oral appliance worn at night. An oral appliance works by repositioning the jaw, depressing the tongue, and clearing the pathway for oxygen to enter the body. Patients who snore, but who don’t have sleep apnea can benefit from an oral appliance as well.
To learn more visit The American Academy of Sleep Medicine. As a member of this association, Dr. Levenson keeps up-to-date with current sleep apnea treatments and clinical studies.
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We're changing lives through modern dentistry. Dr. Levenson has improved the quality of life for patients in Worcester, Central Massachusetts, Shrewsbury, Holden, Northborough, and the surrounding areas for more than two decades. Call our Worcester, MA dental office today to reserve your personal appointment with Dr. Levenson. For your convenience, we offer evening appointments and flexible payment options.
