How an airway focused dentist in Laguna Niguel, CA can treat sleep-disordered breathing
Did you know your dentist can do more than just examine your teeth and gums? He also examines your airway to ensure you can breathe and sleep properly. For an airway dental office near me, contact Dr. Mark Cruz. Dr. Cruz is an airway focused dentist who treats patients in Laguna Niguel, CA, and the surrounding areas. Dr. Cruz understands the airway and common breathing issues. Proper treatment helps protect your overall health and improves your quality of life.
Airway dentistry for sleep-disordered breathing
An estimated 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with an estimated 80 percent of cases walking around undiagnosed. Sleep-disordered breathing affects adults and children. Chronic snoring, especially snoring that awakens you or your partner, is the most common sign of a problem. Additional signs of sleep-disordered breathing may include the following:
- Tiredness upon waking
- Daytime sleepiness
- Headaches
- Trouble concentrating
- Snoring
- Disrupted sleep
Sleep-disordered breathing is often caused by the relaxation of the muscles or soft tissues in the throat. When breathing is disrupted, it can affect REM sleep which is crucial for allowing your brain to refresh itself from the day. If this is interrupted each night, it affects an individual’s daytime alertness.
If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, it is time to contact an airway focused dentist.
How an airway focused dentist can help
A dentist is in the perfect position to assess the airway. Since patients are seen every six months for routine appointments, it can be routine to check the jaw, airway, and soft tissues of the oral cavity too. Issues such as tooth wear, the position of the tongue, and the condition of the soft tissues are signs of airway problems. A poor bite, misaligned jaw, and other dental abnormalities can contribute to breathing problems.
Airway dentistry involves evaluating and treating the breathing systems. The goal is to restore natural breathing. Treatments may include breathing techniques, oral appliances, and therapies to improve positioning of the tongue and jaw.
If you need an airway dental office near me, contact Dr. Mark Cruz in Dana Point, CA for an appointment. Call (949) 661-1006.
