By Bonham Dental Arts - Seminole

06/26/2024 Sleep apnea is a prevalent yet often undiagnosed condition that can significantly impact one's quality of life. Dr. Carey Bonham and the team at Bonham Dental Arts in Seminole are dedicated to raising awareness and providing effective treatments for this sleep disorder. In this article, we delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of sleep apnea, and how Bonham Dental Arts can help you achieve better sleep and overall health.
What is Sleep Apnea?Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which occurs when the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway. This disruption in breathing can cause a variety of health issues, from daytime fatigue to more severe conditions like heart disease and stroke.
Symptoms of Sleep ApneaMany individuals with sleep apnea are unaware they have the condition because it occurs during sleep. However, common symptoms can provide clues:

• Heavy Snoring: Often, loud and chronic snoring is one of the most noticeable signs.
• Periodic Loss of Breath While Sleeping: This includes gasping or choking sounds as the body attempts to restart breathing.
• Struggling to Breathe While Sleeping: Frequent awakenings or restless sleep due to breathing interruptions.
• Constant Fatigue and Lack of Energy: Even after a full night's sleep, individuals may feel excessively tired during the day.
• Weight Gain: Difficulty losing weight or sudden weight gain can be linked to sleep apnea.
• Depression and Mood Swings: Persistent tiredness and sleep disruption can affect mental health, leading to depression and irritability.
• Dry Throat: Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat is a common symptom.
• Irritability: Difficulty concentrating and general moodiness are also associated with sleep apnea.

Treatments Offered by Bonham Dental ArtsAt Bonham Dental Arts, Dr. Carey Bonham and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. They offer several treatment options tailored to meet individual needs, following the guidelines of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Custom-Made Night GuardsFor many patients, Dr. Bonham recommends custom-made night guards, also known as oral appliances. These devices are a simple, less invasive option compared to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The night guards are designed to fit each patient's mouth precisely, promoting comfort and effectiveness without disrupting natural oral movements. These appliances help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw, reducing the frequency of breathing interruptions.
CPAP TherapyFor patients with more severe sleep apnea, CPAP therapy might be recommended. This involves using a CPAP machine, which provides a continuous stream of air to keep the airways open during sleep. While effective, some patients find the mask uncomfortable or cumbersome. In such cases, Dr. Bonham works closely with sleep specialists to find the best treatment approach, which might include a combination of CPAP and custom-made oral appliances.
Commitment to Comprehensive CareDr. Bonham and the team at Bonham Dental Arts are committed to providing comprehensive care for sleep apnea. They work in close collaboration with primary care physicians and sleep specialists to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Their holistic approach is designed to improve patient comfort and health outcomes, helping patients manage and overcome sleep apnea.
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