Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately 936 million adults worldwide and can lead to serious complications for the heart, kidneys, and metabolism if left untreated. Dental health plays a significant role in diagnosing and managing sleep apnea . Dentists often spot early signs, such as worn tooth surfaces and enlarged tongues, making regular dental check-ups crucial for early detection and intervention of this potentially life-threatening condition. This post explains obstructive sleep apnea's symptoms, causes, and treatments. What is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to a few minutes and may occur 30 times or more per hour. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have significant health consequences if left untreated. The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Dental Health Dental health and sleep apnea are closely related, and various dental problems migh