What is Sleep Apnea?
This serious, potentially life-threatening breathing disorder is marked by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep. The condition can occur in people of all ages, including children, teens, and adults.
The airway may be obstructed for a certain period of time by any or all of the tonsils, adenoids, nasal obstruction, or tongue, which may not have enough room due to narrow or receded jaws.
At night, the body must "fight" to ensure air gets past the obstructions, which produces high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone). Long-term, this condition can lead to heart problems, issues with attention, and asthma.
Our orthodontists at Vincelli Orthodontics can help correct misaligned teeth and jaws or recommend a custom-fitted oral appliance to allow for easier breathing during sleeping.
Orthodontics & Sleep Disorders
Our orthodontists know that sleep is vital to your wellbeing. That's why we offer treatment for sleep disorders, like sleep apnea and snoring. By addressing orthodontic issues, we can help allow for easier breathing during sleeping so you can get a better night's rest.
Snoring & Sleep Apnea Appliances
Sleep apnea can impact overall health and well-being, and eventually become life-threatening as it can cause irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, stroke and cardiovascular issues. However, there is hope.
Our orthodontists in Calgary and Canmore offer custom-fitted oral appliances to shift the lower jaw forward and open the airway, reducing the air resistance that leads to sleep apnea and snoring.
These appliances are made to fit the specific shape of a patient's mouth and teeth. They can help to improve oxygen flow and prevent you from waking throughout the night. Oral sleep apnea appliances are most effective for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Effects of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can happen to anyone at any stage of their life. The disorder can have adverse long-term effects on the health of people of all ages, especially children. These effects may include:
- Growth problems and “failure to thrive”
- Attention deficit, hyperactivity problems and learning issues
- “Acting out” behaviours such as aggression and hyperactivity
- Altered immune response leading to conditions such as asthma
- Gastric esophageal reflux disease
- Long-term cardiovascular problems