Teeth Grinding and Snoring Near Me in Endeavour Hills
Do You Snore or Grind Your Teeth? We Can Help You!
Grinding your teeth while sleeping, also known as bruxism, is a condition most people don’t worry about. However, long-term bruxism can result in significant oral damage such as worn-down teeth, painful jaws, teeth sensitivity, oral misalignment, and even locking jaws. Bruxism is a dental concern that requires proper diagnosis and treatment from a professional.
Snoring is also a common sleep problem that a lot of people assume is perfectly normal. However, when you snore too loud or feel like you’re running out of breath while you’re sleeping, this may be a sign that you are suffering from sleep apnea. The leading causes of snoring or sleep apnea are the following:
Obesity or overweight
Drinking alcohol
Smoking
Enlarged tonsils
Enlarged tongue
Deviated septum
Nasal obstruction
Sinus problems
Allergies
Using Dental Appliances for Bruxism and Sleep Apnea
To manage teeth grinding and snoring or sleep apnea, dentists create oral appliances worn inside the patient’s mouth. For bruxism, a splint or mouth guard is used to protect the teeth whenever you grind them. The dental appliance aims to reduce pressure and prevent damage to the teeth and jaws. For mild cases of snoring and sleep apnea, a dental device can be used to keep the airways open or prevent the tongue from blocking the airways while sleeping.
For severe cases of sleep apnea, the suggested treatment is through the use of a CPAP machine. CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are worn while sleeping and continuously supply air through the airways, preventing them from closing up or getting blocked by the tongue or throat muscles. A sleep doctor must prescribe the use of a CPAP machine. The patient must undergo a sleep test and complete diagnostic procedures before receiving treatment.
If CPAP or dental appliances don’t work for the patient, surgery is recommended to remove the throat and airway obstructions.
Stop Snoring and Teeth Grinding with Our Help
Getting proper treatment for snoring and teeth grinding can change your world. These problems that you thought were normal and unavoidable can now be managed through professional care. Not only will you achieve better sleep, your overall health and wellness will also improve. Visit Endeavour Smiles Group to get the treatment you need for bruxism and sleep apnea.
Why Do I Grind My Teeth?
What Happens If I Don’t Get Treatment for Bruxism?
Is Snoring or Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Do I Need Surgery for Sleep Apnea?
How Much Do Dental Appliances Cost?
Why Do I Grind My Teeth?
There are several causes for bruxism or teeth grinding, including:
Stress
Anxiety
Sleep apnea
Abnormal bite or malocclusions
Missing or crooked teeth
Jaw misalignment
What Happens If I Don’t Get Treatment for Bruxism?
In the long run, constantly grinding your teeth can cause the enamel to wear down. You may end up with eroded teeth that are extremely sensitive because their protective enamel is gone. The grinding pressure can also cause tooth roots to move, eventually leading to loose or moving teeth.
Is Snoring or Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Not all snorers have sleep apnea. For most people, snoring is perfectly normal and harmless. However, for individuals who have sleep apnea, the risks are quite high. Studies show a strong correlation between sleep apnea and high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and chronic fatigue. Patients are also at risk of suffering cardiac arrest during sleep.
Do I Need Surgery for Sleep Apnea?
Mild sleep apnea is perfectly manageable with a mouthguard or splint. Surgery is only applicable for severe cases of sleep apnea, where a physical blocker is causing the problem. Patients need an extensive diagnosis before a dentist or medical professional can declare that surgery is the best treatment option.
How Much Do Dental Appliances Cost?
Dental appliances are custom-made for each patient. The price depends on the condition being treated, size, and material used. Your dentist will discuss the exact costs with you once they have created your treatment plan.
