Misconceptions about Sleep Apnea

It is important to clear up some common sleep apnea misconceptions to allow people to learn more about the disorder. If you hear one of these sleep apnea myths, this is what you should know. 

I am not old enough to have sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea has been stereotyped as an elderly sleep disorder. However, this is far from the truth. Sleep apnea affects people of all ages—even children. It is true that the disorder is more commonly found in people over 40, but it is entirely possible to have sleep apnea at any age.
There are some characteristics that do increase your likelihood of developing sleep apnea. For example, if you are an overweight male you are more likely to develop sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea isn’t that dangerous.

 Some people downgrade sleep apnea as just a bad snoring habit, but it has far worse complications than snoring alone. The sudden drops in blood oxygen levels that occur during sleep apnea increase blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system. Essentially, you stop breathing for an extended period. Overtime, this can cause damage to your brain and overall health. If you think you may have sleep apnea, it is important you seek treatment!

The only way to treat sleep apnea is a CPAP machine.

A CPAP machine can help people struggling with sleep apnea, but it is not the only treatment method. Oral appliance therapy can also help! Worn only during sleep, an oral appliance fits like a sports mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer. Research shows it is an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. They are comfortable, quiet, portable, and easily fit into your lifestyle.
Art of Modern Dentistry offers oral appliance therapy for people with sleep apnea. We can work closely with your physician to treat your snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Contact one of our locations for more information today.