Are you aware your dentist can play an important role in helping diagnose and treat Sleep Disorders? More and more dentists are becoming involved with the physicians that treat sleep disorders. During your dental exam the dentist will ask you questions regarding your sleep habits and snoring problems. Dentists should be involved in the over all health of the patient not just the condition of the teeth and gums.
Untreated Sleep Apnea may increase the chance of heart attacks as well as the development of diabetes or cancer. If the dentist is able to assist in diagnosing a sleep disorder he/she can refer you to a physician to see if further help is needed.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, at least 40 million Americans suffer from a chronic long-term sleep disorder. The majority of the public takes sleep for granted until they suffer from some form of sleep disorder. Chronic sleep disorders have been linked to both health and quality of life issues. This includes high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, stroke, diabetes, obesity, motor vehicle accidents, premature aging, and general lack of energy.
Snoring not only affects and bothers your sleeping partner, but it’s also an indicator that someone may have a sleep disorder, such as Sleep Apnea. Ask your dentist about sleep and snoring problems. you may be at higher risk for health problems than you think.