“My new smile has changed my life!”

– Karen R.

People who snore loudly may be in more danger than they think. Snoring could be an indicator of sleep apnea—a condition that in its most extreme cases can lead to suffocation and death. For people in the Portland, Oregon area who feel they have trouble sleeping, sleep apnea dentist Dr. Sue Wendling is here to help.

What is Sleep Apnea?

In short, sleep apnea inhibits a person's ability to take in oxygen during sleep. In this relaxed state, a sleep apnea sufferer's airway becomes blocked. When oxygen flow is blocked, the body's natural response is to violently push back on the throat blockage with a rush of air. This is disruptive to healthy sleep and people can wake up ten times an hour, though they're not consciously aware of this. They just wake up feeling groggy and sluggish the next day. However, in extreme conditions, the body isn't able to force the blockage out of the throat and the person suffocates.

If this continues long term, sleep apnea can elevate risks for heart disease and stroke. Lesser complications include depression, short-term memory loss, impotence and insomnia. It's best to educate yourself about the dangers of sleep apnea.

If you live in Oregon, please contact Wendling Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry today to schedule your initial appointment.