According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, it is estimated that 22 million Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, with 80 percent of moderate and severe cases undiagnosed. Those that are impacted with this condition are unable to get a consistent and fulfilling night’s sleep, which is an essential habit affecting one’s overall health and quality of life. If your patients are approaching you with complaints that their sleep habits are impacted by symptoms such as headaches, jaw stiffness, and shortness of breath, it may be time to get them tested for sleep apnea.

Historically speaking, common treatments for sleep apnea such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, have been viewed by the general public as uncomfortable and invasive. What many individuals looking for treatment do not know however, is that most sleep apnea patients can be treated effectively with oral appliance therapy.

Research has proven repeatedly that oral appliance therapy improves cognitive function[1], reduces the risk of cardiovascular mortality[2], and lowers blood pressure[3] in obstructive sleep apnea patients. And while it is great to read the stats in medical journals, it is even better to hear the joy, amazement, and raves directly from our patients.

At ProHEALTH Dental, our team works closely with sleep medicine physicians to treat patients who are diagnosed with mild or moderate apnea, as well as those who are intolerant of CPAP. Working together with our medical affiliates, our team annually screens patients for sleep apnea, and we have had great success in treating some of these patients together.

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