Sleep Apnea in Glen Rock, NJ

Sleep apnea is a type of sleep disorder commonly associated with irregular breathing cycles, causing you to wake up unexpectedly during the middle of the night. Having these abnormal breathing patterns can cause your energy levels to be depleted and increase the chance of major dental problems. That is why our dentists and team are happy to provide sleep apnea treatments to help protect your smile from bruxism, dry mouth, and tooth decay while you sleep.

Depending on the severity and the symptoms occurring, sleep apnea can be diagnosed in a few different ways. To begin with, we'll have a conversation about your sleep history and any symptoms you've been experiencing. This evaluation may include input from a significant other who shares the same bed with you or others in your household. Typically, this evaluation can be sufficient to determine if you have sleep apnea. There are also certain physical signs that can indicate sleep apnea that we will check for, including:

• Indentions or scalloped edges on the tongue
• Evidence of periodontal disease, like inflamed or receding gums
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) and wear on the teeth
• An increase in cavities or tooth decay
• Irritation and/or redness in the throat
• Physical airway blockages that can be detected with an x-ray

However, if more information is needed, we can refer you to a sleep specialist who may offer at-home sleep tests or overnight testing at a sleep center. Other options include an examination from an ear, nose, and throat specialist to check for blockages, or an appointment with a cardiologist or a neurologist.