Sleep Apnea

When many people think of snoring, they think of noisy nightly disruption that could easily earn the frustration of anyone in earshot.  While some snoring is natural and affects almost everyone at one point or another, chronic, obstructive snoring is a sign of a serious condition known as sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea occurs when tissue in the throat or oral cavity obstructs respiration and blocks sufficient intake of oxygen.

Sleep apnea dentistry deals primarily with this concern.  One of the most common treatments provided through sleep apnea dentistry is the nightly use of a simple oral appliance which prevents the airway obstruction. Most sleep apnea oral appliances are similar to night guards that prevent night grinding.

Many patients are quite satisfied with a night appliance as a form of sleep apnea therapy and the consensuses is that they are more comfortable, flexible and convenient than a CPAP machine and mask, which fits over the mouth and nose and requires electricity.  If you snore, or share a bedroom with someone who does, sleep apnea is a condition that may concern you. We welcome your call and questions on how we can help with sleep apnea dental medicine.

The Secret to Fresh Breath

The secret to fresh breath is actually a collection of steps you should take to avoid the embarrassment of a not-so-fresh impression. Whether you’re going on a job interview, having a conversation with a friend, or getting close to someone special, bad breath can ruin just about any face to face interaction.  To save yourself the hazards of halitosis, follow these steps to fresh breath:

• Keep gum disease free by visiting for regular checkups and cleanings. One of the symptoms of gum disease is bad breath that quickly resurfaces even after brushing and using mouthwash.  If you have bad breath that’s persistent, it could be a sign that your periodontal health is in trouble.  
• Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing and floss every day. Don’t forget to clean your gums, tongue, cheeks and the roof of your mouth, as food particles and bacterial buildup can thrive on these surfaces—causing foul odor. Daily use of a tongue scraper is also a great defense against bad breath.
• Don’t use tobacco products. Whether you smoke it or chew it, tobacco kills the good bacteria that fights disease and wreaks havoc on your mouth.
• Use alcohol free mouthwash and gargle with peroxide.  An alcohol-free mouthwash won’t dry out your mouth the way an alcohol rinse will.  The antimicrobial mouthwash and the properties of peroxide keep odor and decay causing bacteria at bay. 
• Mind your diet – garlic, onions and pungent ingredients can amount to some seriously potent breath. A well balanced diet and moderation are important to keeping your oral and overall health in check and maintain the fresh breath that comes with it. If you suffer from heartburn or GERD, make sure you’re managing your diet, as such conditions can result in bad breath, teeth grinding and enamel damage.

Sources:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120215123357.htm

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/smoking-oral-health

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/dont-let-bad-breath-trouble-your-pretty-smile