What Is Sleep Apnea?
In this video, Dr. Chance McLemore discusses sleep apnea, its severity levels, and how we collaborate with your healthcare team to develop a tailored treatment plan. To explore treatment options for sleep apnea, schedule a consultation at Riviera Dental Care today.
Sleep apnea is a condition where an obstruction in the throat or oral pharynx blocks airflow during sleep, causing paused or restricted breathing. This often occurs when lying on the back, as the airway can collapse due to gravity, though it can also happen in other sleeping positions.
There are three levels of sleep apnea severity:
- Mild
- Moderate
- Severe
The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the condition, which must be diagnosed by a medical professional such as a primary care provider, sleep physician, or ENT specialist. As dentists, we cannot diagnose sleep apnea, but we work closely with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.