Sleep disorders are much more common than you may think.  It is difficult to determine what percentage is related to physical issues and what is related to the mind / emotional issues.  Frequently it is both, the mind and the body are connected, and Dr. Maruko has experience with both. It does not include central sleep apnea which is best treated by a qualified medical professional. 

 

According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep apnea affects more than 18 million Americans. This figure is, of course, based on reported instances. Many people may not know they suffer from sleep apnea until their symptoms are reported by a sleep partner. This means the real figure could be much higher.  They affect both children and adults. 

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Snoring is a sign that there is a temporary blockage in the throat while sleeping.  Stopping breathing is even more serious and just because someone does not snore does not mean there is a problem.  For example, children will have strange body positions to open their airway at night such as hanging their head over the side of the bed, or having their head in what is called a "sniffing" or "CPR" position.  If you or your child do not wake up feeling rested it is worth investigating because everyone should feel great every morning. 

 

What is Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome?

 

TMJ problems and clenching may be signs of an sleep airway problem.  It affects women more than men, and is often missed.  A sleep study result may be negative but there is still a problem.  Women and men with a slender body physique are more at risk for Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome with symptoms of clenching, joint, head, and neck pain, and GERD.  Acid reflux increases the risk for esophageal cancer and it is important to address the root cause rather than just take medication. 

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What is Sleep Apnea?

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Sleep apnea is characterized by the repeated cessation of breathing during sleep. There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form.

Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain does not send the proper signals to your breathing muscles. This is best addressed by a qualified sleep physician such as a neurologist. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea. If you have been told you snore loudly, or feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, please investigate.  Sleep apnea is an inflammatory disease with comorbidity with other inflammatory diseases such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes.  It is also associated with depression and fibromyalgia. 

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At Maruko Orthodontics, we offer a whole health approach to diagnosis and treatment planning to inform the patient of additional steps they can take to improve their overall well being. 

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Since it can be quite complex, it may involve other health practitioners and a large choice of treatment plans, including mandibular advancement appliances (MAD) or oral appliance therapy (OAT), simple orthodontics and complex medical, or complex orthodontics in combination with jaw surgery or MARPE. 

What are some signs?

• Choking or gasping noises during sleep

• A sore throat or dry mouth in the morning

• Waking up with a dull headache,  jaw pain

• Trouble staying asleep

• Worn or chipped front teeth, broken molars

• Trouble paying attention

• Excessive daytime sleepiness

• Irritability