Sleep Apnea Treatments from Your Gentle, Caring Gilroy Dentist
Sleep apnea and TMJ are two common health conditions that your dentist may be able to identify and treat. Leaving these conditions untreated can lead to serious health disorders and disruptions in your daily life. Learn more about these conditions below, and visit a qualified and experienced dentist if you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or TMJ. In Gilroy, call Lowell O. Tan, DDS at for a thorough examination and thoughtful and effective treatment plan.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea and snoring can do more than just keep you and your partner from getting a good night’s sleep. Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk for serious medical problems that can even be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. These conditions include heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. Additionally, not getting a full night’s restful sleep can cause you to be less alert during the day, putting you at a greater risk of accidents at home, at work or on the road.
While there are many causes of sleep apnea, oral health issues are often to blame. Dr. Lowell Tan has had success identifying and treating sleep apnea in his patients. Your dentist is often the first healthcare professional to notice indications you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Tooth grinding, technically known as bruxism, is often a sign of sleep apnea. Tooth grinding is also a dangerous behavior in and of itself. Grinding down the teeth can lead to cavities and even cause a tooth to break, and also cause gums to become inflamed or recede.
Dr. Tan works with an interdisciplinary team of colleagues to get you into a better breathing position and relieve your sleep apnea symptoms. A custom-made night guard or other oral appliance can also help stop teeth grinding and improve air flow while you sleep. If your snoring is a problem, or if you wake up fatigued or with a dry, sore throat, be sure and mention your concerns when you come to us for a check-up. We’ll take special care if we believe sleep apnea may be an issue, and we’ll be sure to address your needs in your comprehensive dental treatment plan.
