Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to tiredness and loud snoring. When left untreated, it can cause further health problems like hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes. 

Knowing what to do when you have sleep apnea will ensure you live a safe and comfortable life. At Auburn Dental Center in Bakersfield, California, Dr. David D. Shively, DDS, and Dr. Roger V. Pham, DDS, have helped dozens of patients sleep better. Read on to learn more about what you can do when you have sleep apnea. 

Who Gets Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, from children to senior citizens. About 25% of men and about 10% of women suffer from sleep apnea. Also, people who are over the age of 50 and overweight are likely to be affected by sleep apnea. Factors like structural abnormalities and a large neck that restrict airflow can also cause sleep apnea.

What to Do When You Have Sleep Apnea?

You need to make a few changes to your lifestyle and seek medical help for your situation.

• Lifestyle Changes
• Exercise daily
• Don’t sleep on your back
• Lose weight
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid anti-anxiety and sleeping pills
• Seek Medical Help

The field of dentistry has advanced so well in recent years that dentists can custom-design oral devices to help improve the wellbeing of people with sleep apnea. Here are a few ways dentists can help:

Temporomandibular Devices: These are specialized devices designed to keep your airway open during sleep. They look like retainers and help you get the right amount of oxygen you need to have good sleep.

Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) Machines: Continuous Positive Air Pressure or CPAP machines are devices that help maintain continuous air pressure to help you breathe better when you sleep. They deliver compressed air to your respiratory system through a nasal or full face mask.

Making the necessary lifestyle changes and seeking medical help can help people with sleep apnea improve their lives. To learn more, reach out to Dr. Shively or Dr. Pham at Aurora Dental Center in Bakersfield, California, by calling (661) 327-2189 or visiting our office at 5603 Auburn St. Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93306.