Do You Need a Sleep Study? Let’s Talk About Dental Sleep Medicine

If you’ve been told that you snore, experience excessive daytime fatigue, or wake up feeling less than refreshed, you might be dealing with more than just a restless night. These symptoms could indicate sleep apnea, a serious condition that affects how you breathe while you sleep. But how do you know for sure? A sleep study may hold the answer.

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta, we specialize in dental sleep medicine, a field that helps treat sleep-related breathing disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Our team can help you navigate the process of diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, ensuring you get the restful, healthy sleep you deserve. Here’s everything you need to know about whether you should consider a sleep study.

What is a Sleep Study?

A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a diagnostic tool used to monitor and record various physiological activities during sleep. The test is designed to detect abnormalities in your breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and more, helping to diagnose conditions like sleep apnea.

During the study, sensors are placed on your body to measure your brain activity, muscle movement, heart rhythm, and breathing patterns. For those who suspect sleep apnea, a sleep study can confirm the diagnosis and reveal the severity of the condition.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), an estimated 26% of adults aged 30-70 suffer from sleep apnea, yet many are unaware that they have the condition. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to more serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Signs You May Need a Sleep Study

So, how do you know if a sleep study is necessary? Here are a few common signs that may indicate sleep apnea:

• Loud snoring: Snoring is one of the most common signs of sleep apnea, especially if it’s loud enough to disrupt your partner’s sleep.
• Gasping for air during sleep: This is a classic sign of sleep apnea, as it suggests your airway may be partially or fully blocked.
• Daytime fatigue: If you constantly feel tired, even after a full night’s sleep, it could be a sign that your sleep is being interrupted by apnea episodes.
• Morning headaches: Frequent headaches upon waking are another common symptom of sleep apnea, often caused by low oxygen levels during the night.
• Dry mouth or sore throat: If you wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat, it may be due to breathing through your mouth while you sleep.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk to Dr. Wayne Suway about whether a sleep study could benefit you.

The Role of Dental Sleep Medicine in Sleep Apnea Treatment

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice, we offer advanced solutions through dental sleep medicine for patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Once diagnosed through a sleep study, many patients can benefit from a customized oral appliance to help manage their sleep apnea. Oral appliances are comfortable, easy-to-wear devices that help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue, allowing for better airflow during sleep.

Studies published by the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine suggest that oral appliances are an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea, with patients reporting fewer symptoms and better overall sleep quality. Dr. Suway works closely with each patient to design and fit these appliances to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness.

How a Sleep Study Can Improve Your Health

Understanding whether or not you have sleep apnea is the first step in protecting your long-term health. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and hypertension. It can also contribute to obesity and poor cognitive function. By identifying and treating the condition early, you can reduce the risk of these health complications.

The National Sleep Foundation reports that individuals with untreated sleep apnea are also more likely to experience accidents due to daytime drowsiness. In fact, those with severe sleep apnea are 2.5 times more likely to be involved in a car accident compared to those without the condition. A sleep study can help prevent these dangers by allowing you to seek proper treatment and improve your overall safety.

Why Choose Dr. Wayne Suway for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients struggling with sleep apnea. Here’s why we’re the best choice for your dental sleep medicine needs:

• Expertise in Dental Sleep Medicine: With years of experience in treating sleep apnea, Dr. Suway is a trusted provider of oral appliance therapy, helping patients sleep better and breathe easier.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest techniques and technology to diagnose and treat sleep apnea, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
• Customized Care: Every patient is different, which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s office, we strive to help patients manage their sleep apnea effectively, improve their quality of sleep, and enjoy better overall health.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or have been told that you snore, it may be time to consider a sleep study. Contact Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta to schedule a consultation and learn more about dental sleep medicine and how we can help you achieve a better night’s sleep.