What is sleep apnea?

Of every 10 Australian adults, two will experience snoring during their lifetime. During normal breathing, air is drawn through the nose and past soft tissue at the back of the throat. These tissues include the uvula, the soft palate and the tongue. During waking hours, the airways are held open by the tone of muscles around them.

During sleep, these muscles relax. In some people these airways may relax too much (or collapse), leading to obstruction or the airways. In an attempt to overcome the obstruction, the person breathes harder, using the chest wall muscles and diaphragm. However, the harder the person tries to breathe the more it will collapse. If breathing has stopped for more than 10 seconds, the condition is called sleep apnea.

How to be tested?

We offer consultations with the dentist in regards to getting a sleep appliance made. Firstly, we will need a test to be done to check how your sleep is being interrupted. This can be done by an at home test kit being sent to you via a sleep lab. Once the report comes back from the lab, we can get started in making an appliance best suited for you.

Benefits of sleep apnea appliance

• Waking up refreshed and revitalized
• Improved concentration and energy levels
• Decreased levels of fatigue
• Decreased risk of heart disease, stroke and blood pressure problems
• Eliminate or reduce snoring
• More airflow while sleeping