How a Dentist Can Help You Sleep

Millions of people around the country suffer from disrupted sleep. More than just an annoyance, a lack of solid rest can impact everything from your daily concentration to your overall lifespan. We’ll look at why dentists in Kansas City, MO are becoming a trusted resource to help people get a better night’s sleep.

Why Visit a Dentist?

Sleep disorders are often related to how well you breathe at night, and dentists know your airways inside and out. Dentists can remove or reshape tissues and align your teeth and jaw so you don’t have to worry about an oxygen lapse. They can also recommend devices that support you even when you’re in your deepest sleep.

Dentists in Kansas City, MO can’t treat all disorders. In some cases, you’re better off visiting a sleep specialist, general practitioner, or even an orthodontist. However, it can be useful to start with a dentist if you’ve been struggling with common symptoms like snoring or unexplained exhaustion.

What Kinds of Treatments Will a Dentist Recommend?

Dentists may recommend any number of treatments, including:

• Mouth guards: If you’re grinding your teeth at night, a night guard will protect your teeth so you don’t wake up from gnashing. These devices can also move your jaw slightly to further open the airway.
• CPAP appliances: A CPAP machine uses forced air to keep your airways open at night, so your tissues don’t collapse in on themselves.
• Lifestyle changes: Obesity, smoking, and stress can all contribute to sleep disorders. A dentist can help you treat the short-term symptoms while you work on addressing the long-term causes.

If you’re interested in treating your sleep disorder in Kansas City, MO, contact NKC Dental today to see if we can help.