Sleep Apnea

Do you know someone who snores or do you have trouble sleeping yourself? Sleep apnea is a condition in which the patient has difficulty sleeping and deals with irregular breathing patterns.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Additional symptoms of sleep apnea often include the following:

• Waking up with a sore throat.
• Feeling tired throughout the day.
• Difficulty focusing on the day’s tasks.
• Heavy snoring.
• Headaches.

If you are dealing with any of these symptoms, check out our office to discuss possible treatment options.

Sleep Apnea Dangers

Patients may simply learn to live with sleep apnea because they are used to the symptoms, but we strongly recommend against this tactic, as sleep apnea can be dangerous and even deadly if left untreated.

Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of stroke, hypertension, and heart disease! Sleep apnea treatment can prevent these issues and help you get better sleep. Are you ready to stop feeling so tired all the time? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenny Lee today!

What Does Sleep Apnea Have To Do With Dentistry?

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by obstructions in the airway. Usually, the airway is blocked by excess throat tissue, a relaxed tongue, or the position of the jaw during sleep. A dentist of Dr. Lee’s skill can help with these issues!

Using special oral devices that hold the airway open, Dr. Lee can get you a better night’s sleep. These devices are custom-made to your needs. After a careful examination of your mouth and throat, Dr. Lee will be able to determine which type of device would help you the most. Some devices hold your jaw forward and others hold your tongue in place.

Sometimes the right treatment could mean a small surgery. Dr. Lee can remove a tiny bit of throat tissue, opening the airway, and treating your sleeping troubles.

Should You Get a CPAP?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices (also known as CPAP) are a common type of sleep apnea treatment. They provide continuous airflow through the airway so that it stays open all night long.

While CPAP machines do treat the symptoms of sleep apnea and will effectively prevent many of the long-term side effects, CPAP will not treat the cause of the condition. They are also difficult to handle. Oftentimes, these machines require a large mask and very bulky supplies.

Dental appliances on the other hand fit neatly into a small case that is easy to bring with you on vacation without taking up space in your suitcase.

Who Is At-Risk for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can happen to anyone at any time. However, certain demographics have a higher risk of gaining this condition. A few of these conditions are listed below:

• Weight: Being overweight or obese can lead to sleep apnea.
• Gender: Men typically deal with sleep apnea more than women
• Age: Patients ages 65 and older have a greater risk of sleep apnea.
• Family History: Sleep apnea runs in the family.
• Smoking Habits: Smokers will experience sleep apnea more than non-smokers.

If you fit into one of these categories, check with your primary care physician about whether you’re at risk of sleep apnea and how you can prevent it. If you’re already having trouble breathing while asleep, Dr. Jenny Lee can help you breathe easier.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep With Doctor Lee!

Time is money, and losing sleep takes a lot of time out of a productive schedule. Enjoy every moment life offers by coming down to Dr. Lee’s office.

Our New York location near Central Park and Lennox Hill neighborhood is eager to assist you in getting the sleep you deserve!