Snoring or sleep apnea is no laughing matter, it is a serious medical condition where a patient repeatedly stops breathing during sleep. Types of sleep apnea include:

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea and happens when your throat muscles relax.
Central sleep apnea is when the brain fails to send the right signals to the muscles controlling your breathing.
Complex sleep apnea syndrome is when someone has both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and are putting off treatment, be aware that there are possible risks to your health. Complications can include:

–Daytime fatigue, drowsiness, and irritability. One is more at risk for workplace or driving accidents, and can incur depression.

–Heart problems or high blood pressure. The drop in blood oxygen levels puts a strain on the cardiovascular system, raising your blood pressure. This makes you at higher risk for stroke, hypertension, abnormal heartbeat and even heart attack.

–Type 2 diabetes. You are more likely to develop insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

–Metabolic syndrome. This collection of risk factors are linked to a higher risk of heart disease. These risk factors are abnormal cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and increased waist size.

–Liver problems. People with sleep apnea show signs of scarring on their livers.

Oral appliance therapy is recommended for those diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Especially if you cannot tolerate using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device, Dr Lauren A. Yun can create a removable, custom-made dental appliance formed for the shape of your teeth and mouth to be worn while you sleep. This appliance keeps the airways free from obstructions for better breathing.

Dr. Lauren A. Yun can is happy to treat your snoring and sleep apnea so you can once again get a good night’s sleep. To find out more, please call our staff at Mountain Aire Dentistry at (303) 731-7755 and we will have you smiling again in no time!