• Does your sleeping partner snore?
• Does their breathing sound shallow?
• Do you notice their breathing stopping and starting?

 

If you answered yes to any of these questions it may be a sign of a breathing disorder called Sleep Apnea. 

 

 

Snoring is a result of turbulent airflow at the back of the throat when the muscles of the airway collapse while sleeping. Snoring affects the sleep of both the snorer and the bed partner.

Studies show that bed partners of snorers average one hour less sleep every night than normal. Snorers are often less rested during the day than they could be.

 What is Sleep Apnea? 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the result of the tissues at the back of the throat actually blocking the airway up to hundreds of times every night. It affects 4% of men and 2% of women. The resulting disruption of normal sleep pattern may cause daytime fatigue, memory problems and lack of energy. 

Studies show that people with OSA have a greater risk of accidents while driving or while at work. The repeated drop in blood oxygen levels in the night can have serious health consequences. 

Dr. Farquhar has ran the Introduction to Dental Sleep Medicine program at the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine's annual scientific meeting where 160 dentists from around North America attended the introductory course. Dr. Farquhar has been involved with teaching treatment of snoring and sleep apnea to other dentists for more than two years.


Grand Valley Dental
http://www.grandvalleydental.ca