If you make choking or gasping sounds in your sleep, you may suffer from sleep apnea. Generally, this condition is caused because your airway becomes obstructed, either by sagging muscles in the throat or by your tongue.

Still, we have good news: Your dentist can help. Based on your needs, he or she may be able to adjust the position of your jaw or create a custom dental appliances designed to prevent your airway from being blocked. Furthermore, your dentist can recommend a specialist if necessary.

Sadly, sometimes there is nothing you can do to prevent sleep apnea. For example, Men are more likely to have sleep apnea than women are, especially men who have a family history with sleep apnea. Similarly, if you are born with a small airway, you may be more prone to sleep apnea.

However, just as there are situations that you can’t change, there are a few things you can do to prevent sleep apnea. For example, not drinking or smoking can have a major impact on sleep apnea. Nicotine and alcohol can cause the muscles in your throat to relax, which can cause them to sag and block your airway. Similarly, sedatives could have the same effect.

To learn more about what you can do about sleep apnea—or to schedule an appointment with us—please feel free to contact us soon. We are eager to hear from you.