Yeah, you may need to visit your dentist for a sleep disorder called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea refers to the discomfort and breathing problems that a person experiences while sleeping.

The disorder may arise from a misalignment problem in the jaw. Yes, your dentist will treat this. Now, how will you find out if you or someone else in the family has sleep apnea? Here is a list of its most common symptoms:

• Excessive and loud snoring

• Perspiration during sleep
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Waking up to breathe
• Insufficient sleep
• Restlessness while sleeping
• Headache on waking up
• Exhaustion and depression

If you notice one or more of the above-mentioned symptoms, tell your dentist on your next visit. Let him/her examine you and find out if sleep apnea is indeed the problem. Don’t worry if you are diagnosed with the problem; your dentist has the cure.

Sleep apnea can be extremely painful and its effects affect almost all aspects of our lives. Insufficient sleep will cause you to be come irritable, unproductive, and depressed. It is important that you figure out the problem early and visit the dentist. However, you should also remember that all cases of insomnia do not indicate sleep apnea. Inform your dentist about each and every symptom you have noticed, its duration, and any other discomfort. In fact, the next time you spouse or partner snores during sleep, don’t curse him/her. Take him/her to the dentist the next morning.

Being aware can help ward off several problems. Take care.

Tags: sleep apnea