Just one more reason why visiting your dentist is good for your health.

What can a dentist do about sleep disorders? A LOT! Dr. Belkin is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Consider this:

	SNORING FACTS	SLEEP APNEA FACTS
	An estimated 1 in 8 people SNORE	Approximately 18 million people suffer from SLEEP APNEA
	Snoring is improved and often eliminated in nearly 100% of patients who use oral appliances	28% of men over the age of 65 suffer from SLEEP APNEA
		Up to 50% of SLEEP APNEA patients have high blood pressure.
		Risk of heart attack and stroke is higher in people suffering from SLEEP APNEA
		Almost 60% of Americans suffer from daytime sleepiness, a side effect of SLEEP APNEA

Why should I be concerned about snoring and sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is the most common sleep disorder, affecting nearly 1 out of every 8 individuals. Snoring is the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. While snoring can be harmless, it can also be the sign of a more serious medical condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the tongue and soft tissues fall back into the throat during sleep, completely blocking the airway. Obstructive sleep apnea has been associated with cardiovascular problems as well as daytime sleepiness.

 So what has this got to do with my DENTIST?

Once you have been correctly diagnosed, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea can be treated with a medical device known as a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), with oral appliances, through surgical options, or by a combination of these approaches. As a member of the American Academe of Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Belkin understands the treatments and the options. Many people find the application of dental oral appliances to be simpler and less intrusive than other approaches.

What is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy involves the selection, design, fitting and use of a specially designed oral appliance that, when worn during sleep, maintains an opened and unobstructed airway in the throat. Oral appliances that treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are worn in the mouth, similar to orthodontic retainers or sports mouth-guards. Oral appliances work by:

• Repositioning the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate and uvula
• Stabilizing the lower jaw and tongue
• Increasing the muscle tone of the tongue

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or snoring, contact Dr. Belkin today (614-442-1810). Getting a good night sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health.

Click here for more information about sleep medicine and oral appliance therapy.