Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders, including sleep apnoea, are among the most underdiagnosed and poorly managed health conditions. They are more common than diabetes and asthma, yet many people remain untreated.

At Morphett Vale Dental Care, we take a holistic approach to your health. During your dental examinations, we look for signs that may indicate potential sleep related breathing disorders. Identifying these signs early can help you seek the right medical care.

Sleep apnoea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep. This can cause partial or complete pauses in breathing, often repeated many times per hour. Common risk factors include poor jaw alignment, enlarged tongue, posture, and weight gain.

Because breathing is interrupted, the body is deprived of oxygen. This may lead to:

• High blood pressure and heart disease
• Stroke
• Memory loss and poor concentration
• Type II diabetes
• Headaches
• Depression, fatigue, or low energy

• Loud snoring
• Choking or gasping for air during sleep
• Feeling unrefreshed after sleep
• Morning headaches
• Daytime tiredness or difficulty concentrating

Partners may also notice episodes where breathing stops or becomes irregular.

Dentists are often the first to notice signs of possible sleep disorders during routine examinations. Common indicators may include:

• Tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Acid erosion or worn teeth
• Narrow jaws or crowded teeth
• Scalloped tongue or mouth breathing
• Large tonsils

At MVDC, we work with Arise https://www.arisesleep.com.au/  to assist with home-based sleep studies. If appropriate, we can help facilitate screening and guide you to the right medical support.

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and must be guided by a medical diagnosis. Options may include:

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
• Oral appliances (mandibular advancement splints)
• ENT referral
• Weight management and lifestyle changes

For suitable patients with mild to moderate sleep apnoea, a custom-made oral appliance can help. This device is similar to a mouthguard and works by gently repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep, which may also reduce snoring.

At MVDC, we use SomnoMed and Airway Centric Orthotics appliances and provide ongoing monitoring to help you achieve the best possible results.

If you have been told you snore, wake up tired, or suspect a sleep disorder, it is important not to ignore the signs. Sleep is a foundation of good health, and untreated sleep apnoea can impact both quality of life and long-term health.

Contact us today to discuss your concerns and arrange a consultation. We can help coordinate a sleep study and advise whether an oral appliance may be suitable for you.

If you have Sleep Disorders and want to learn more about items that may help you please have a look at snore guards. Should you have any questions just give us a call.

Disclaimer
The information above is general in nature and not a substitute for medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnoea should be made by a qualified medical professional. At MVDC, we can screen for possible signs, assist with sleep study referrals, and provide dental appliances if appropriate. If you suspect you may have sleep apnoea, please seek professional medical assessment.