Dental Health

How Is Snoring Different From Sleep Apnea?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

sleep apnea dentist Provo

It’s estimated that 50% of people snore at some point during their life.

Sleep apnea is a more serious, but also common sleep disorder. Snoring and sleep apnea are related. Many people who snore also have sleep apnea. However, the conditions are not always present together. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can determine if your sleep apnea is related to your oral health in Provo.

Why Is Sleep Apnea So Dangerous?

Snoring alone doesn’t cause breathing to stop. People who suffer from sleep apnea actually stop breathing. This can happen many times during the night. When the brain is deprived of oxygen—not surprisingly—serious problems can occur. Even death.

Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk for heart problems including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. They are also at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

One of the most common problems is daytime fatigue. This makes ordinary activities overwhelming. Untreated sleep apnea lowers the quality of life.

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect the person with the condition. Their bed partner is also deprived of restorative sleep and, as such, is at risk of health complications.

Wondering if your health issues are a result of sleep apnea?

If you suffer from daytime sleepiness, or your partner says you stop breathing temporarily during sleep, see your doctor right away. If you want to start out with a specialist, ask your primary doctor for a recommendation. In the U.S., the American Board of Sleep Medicine certifies physicians who treat sleep disorders.

Your doctor will diagnose whether you have sleep apnea and which of the three types you have. This may require a visit to a sleep disorder clinic.

If your physician diagnoses your condition as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, don’t assume that there is only one treatment.

Sleep apnea can be treated with an oral appliance, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or surgery.

If your medical doctor believes you are a candidate for a dental appliance, consult a dentist who specializes in the treatment of sleep disorders.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Keep Teeth Cavity Free With Braces

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Dental Health

orthodontics invisible braces Provo

Does your youngster in Provo have braces? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide tips to help keep them clean.

It’s more difficult to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. There are numerous places bits of food can hide. It’s challenging to get toothbrush bristles in all those nooks and crannies.

Food bits turn into bacteria

The brackets and wires on braces create places where harmful bacteria can thrive.

If brace wearers don’t practice consistent, proper oral hygiene, their teeth can become permanently damaged.

The cycle of decay in 5 stages:

  1. The bits of food collect in the tiny spaces in and around the brackets and wires
  2. The bacteria in the food particles multiply
  3. The bacteria create plaque
  4. The plaque erodes the enamel
  5. The plaque destroys enamel and the dentin below and forms a cavity

Bacteria isn’t good for gums, either

Provo orthodontic patients can also have gum disease (gingivitis). Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can bring about bone recession and tooth loss.

Protect teeth with a healthy diet plus proper oral hygiene

Teens with braces should pay extra attention to eating a nutritious diet. This includes limiting snacks between meals. Be aware that highly acidic foods and beverages can damage enamel.

Avoid soda pop and energy drinks

There are few liquids as detrimental as soda and energy drinks, both of which have enamel-eroding acid and sugar.

How to brush with braces

Here are the steps to effective brushing while wearing braces, courtesy of Colgate:

  1. Use fluoride toothpaste
  2. Remove elastics before brushing
  3. Place your brush at a 45 degree angle against the gums
  4. Gently brush with a circular motion along the gumline where the gums and teeth meet
  5. Brush at least 10 seconds on each tooth
  6. Gently brush the brackets
  7. Press the brush firmly so that the bristles spread into the gaps between the wire and the tooth
  8. Brush in and around all of the brackets and be sure to get under the wires (a battery-powered brush may be helpful)
  9. For the chewing surfaces, use a firm back-and-forth motion
  10. Spit out excess toothpaste
  11. Closely inspect your teeth and braces in the mirror to check that they are clean and shiny
  12. Replace the elastics
  13. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for 1 minute to help prohibit cavities and white spots
  14. Use other oral care products as prescribed by your dental professional

It is also vital to floss while wearing braces. We’ll address that in another post.

If you are new to the Orem area and looking for an experienced pediatric dentist, we invite you to give us a call.

 

1“Protecting Your Healthy Smile while Wearing Braces,” Colgate Professional, http://www.colgateprofessional.com/patient-education/articles/protecting-your-healthy-smile-while-wearing-braces

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Smokeless Tobacco Is Not Harmless For Provo Chewers

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

dental implants Provo

Cigarette sales at most Provo stores have decreased in the past decade, but some tobacco consumers have switched to smokeless products.

There is a common misconception (especially among teens) that smokeless tobacco is harmless. This is absolutely not true. Regardless of the specific type: spit tobacco, snuff, chew, or pinch, this form of tobacco is as deadly as old-school cigarettes.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we encounter serious consequences of smokeless tobacco use because many occur in the mouth. Oral cancer, mouth lesions, gum disease, and tooth decay are the most common dental problems caused by smokeless tobacco.

Keeping a pinch between your cheek and gum all day is worse than keeping an all-day sucker tucked in there. Tobacco contains almost as much sugar as candy but delivers dangerous chemicals as an added bonus. The dangers are two-fold: the tobacco erodes the teeth and also causes the gums to pull away from the teeth.

Precancerous Mouth Lesion Screening: Mouth lesions are painful sores that could eventually become cancer. If smokeless tobacco use is stopped, the lesions frequently disappear within a year for many dental patients.

Oral Cancer: Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk of several types of life-threatening cancers including those of the mouth, gums, lips, tongue, and throat.

Oral cancers can be as deadly as lung cancer and usually require surgery. If the patient is fortunate and the cancer is successfully removed with surgery, the collateral damage to the face, neck, or jaw is not pretty.

These are the main dental risks of smokeless tobacco. Moreover, I should also mention two other biggies: addiction and heart disease, though those are topics for another day.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we perform oral cancer screenings and mouth lesions examinations. To receive more details, or schedule an appointment, call 801-374-0070.

If you want to quit using smokeless tobacco products, we recommend that you speak with Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your primary care doctor, or your pharmacist.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Is Tooth Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

is tooth sensitivity a dental emergency? Provo

You can experience tooth sensitivity when the enamel of your teeth starts to thin. Or when nerves in your teeth become exposed. You may feel pain only when you drink hot or cold liquids. Or it could take place any time you chew.

Is tooth sensitivity a dental emergency?

If tooth sensitivity comes on suddenly, it may be a dental emergency, or at least an urgent dental issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

Either way, at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we can establish the cause and treat it if it’s dental-related. If we can’t treat the underlying condition, we can refer you to a specialist.

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by:

  • A cavity
  • Gum recession
  • A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
  • An abscess
  • Thinning enamel due to teeth grinding, bulimia, acid reflux, an acidic diet, vaping, or a bite condition
  • Teeth whitening treatment

Of course, the treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on the cause.

If you experience sudden tooth sensitivity, request an appointment at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Dr. Hammond will determine the cause of the sensitivity. If the sensitivity is due to thinning enamel, Dr. Hammond will recommend an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste. A high-fluoride toothpaste formulated for tooth sensitivity lessens tooth pain after several applications. However, some patients may need in-office procedures such as fluoride gel treatments.

If the sensitivity is caused by an abscess or a cavity, we will take care of that issue as well. We perform root canals, fillings, and inlays/onlays.

These habits can weaken or diminish your tooth enamel:

1. Chewing on hard foods

We’re looking at you Unpopped popcorn kernels and hard candy.

2. Chewing on hard possessions

This includes fingernails, pencils, pen caps, and ice.

3. Grinding your teeth

If you grind your teeth, talk about it with your dentist. An appliance can guard your smile. Then seek appropriate treatment for the underlying cause. Dr. Hammond can recommend medical professionals who specialize in treating teeth grinding.

4. Eating too much sticky food

Gummy candy, dried fruit, and even protein bars can chip teeth.

5. Drinking anything besides water frequently

If your teeth are bathed in soda (sugared or diet), juice, coffee, or sports drinks habitually, you are asking for dental dilemmas.

6. Playing sports without a mouthguard

Sports pose a major risk of tooth damage. Most kids are required to wear a protective mouthguard on the playing field. But fewer adults wear mouthguards for recreational activities like mountain biking and skiing. Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all but rarely fit well. Custom-fitted mouthguards from your dentist are more comfortable than the cheap boil-and-bite type.

7. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush

A hard-bristled toothbrush can damage teeth and cause gums to pull away. Remove food bits and plaque with a soft (or extra-soft) toothbrush.

8. Ignoring dry mouth

Saliva is important. Saliva is necessary to neutralize acids and rinse bits of food off of teeth. It also helps clean the teeth of leftover food bits, helping to prevent plaque buildup. Constant dry mouth, or xerostomia, can lead to tooth decay. Talk to your dentist if you have a dry mouth repeatedly.

9. Using teeth as tools

Take a minute to find a pair of scissors before you tear open a package of lunch meat or pry the lid of a medicine bottle. Use a Nutcracker if you are eating unshelled nuts. A quality dental crown can cost over eight hundred dollars.

10. Ignoring bad breath

Bad breath is often related to bacteria build-up in the mouth. It might be a symptom of accelerating tooth decay. Discuss it with your dentist. (Don’t be embarrassed. We treat bad breath all the time.)

11. Ignoring jaw pain

If you notice inexplicable jaw pain or notice a clicking sound, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly! These symptoms can be signs of a serious condition called temporomandibular disorder or TMD.

Is it too late? Have you already broken or chipped a tooth? We can repair it at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. There are a number of restorative and cosmetic dental treatments for chipped or cracked teeth.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Affordable One-Visit Tooth Fix in Provo, UT

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

affordable fix for chipped tooth Orem

Some Provo, UT people are unhappy with the way their teeth look but many mistakenly assume that cosmetic dentistry is far too expensive to pursue. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we fix teeth quickly.

Sure, a complete mouth reconstruction can be an expensive investment. Consider the cost of dental school and post-graduate training for a master-level cosmetic dentist. Consider the expense of individually creating multiple restorations at a high-tech dental lab. Consider the cost of setting up and maintaining a full-service dental practice or laboratory.

Before you give up on improving your smile, however, think about a less celebrated but extremely effective and cost-effective cosmetic dental remedy: dental bonding.

Dental bonding has a wide range of applications for unappealing teeth. Bonding can correct a tooth that is damaged, chipped, short, or discolored. It can also repair teeth that have gaps in between them.

How does the dental bonding procedure work?

First, your tooth will be slightly (but painlessly) roughed up to help the resin adhere. Your dentist will use a shade guide to determine the precise color of the composite to match the existing teeth. Your dentist will apply liquid composite resin on the tooth, layer by layer. He or she will carefully shape and polish it before it hardens. The tooth is then covered with a conditioning liquid that helps with adhesion.

Once the resin is bonded, it is further molded to the accurate shape for your bite and appearance. A laser helps rapidly bond the resin in place as it hardens. Further shaping and polishing, if required, complete the procedure. The result is a beautiful smile.

We invite you to meet the fantastic team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We are proud of our venerable reputation for critical personalized attention and first-rate care. Our caring team can answer any questions you have about our top services: sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and mini implants.

We are now accepting new patients and look forward to meeting you.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

We all love a sweet treat now and then. Whether it’s a celebratory slice of cake or a post-dinner indulgence, sugary foods are a part of life. But what happens to our teeth after we indulge? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Utah, we see the effects of sugary treats on smiles every day.

The not-so-secret culprit behind sugar’s impact is the bacteria naturally present in our mouths. These bacteria feed on sugar particles, leaving behind an acidic byproduct. This acid erodes tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth.

Think of enamel as your teeth shield. When weakened by acid, this shield becomes vulnerable. Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, those pesky holes that cause pain and sensitivity.

Here’s a breakdown of how sugary treats can affect your smile:

  • Frequency: Occasional treats are less damaging than a constant stream of sugar.
  • Form: Sticky candies and sugary drinks linger in the mouth longer, giving bacteria more time to produce acid.
  • Overall Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium helps strengthen teeth and counteract the effects of sugar.

So, does this mean you have to ditch dessert forever? Not necessarily! Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in a balanced approach to oral health.

Here are some tips to enjoy your treats without sacrificing your smile:

  • Limit sugary treats: Make them a special occasion, not an everyday occurrence.
  • Choose wisely: Opt for treats that dissolve quickly, like cookies, over sticky candies.
  • Drink water: Water washes away sugar particles and helps neutralize harmful acids.
  • Brush and floss regularly: Good oral hygiene removes plaque and bacteria before they can cause damage.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups: Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent more serious problems.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, happy smile.

Contact us today to schedule your next checkup and discuss personalized strategies for keeping sugar in check!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them in Provo?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

gum disease treatment Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we want our dental patients to be aware of the threat of gum disease. A recent CDC report provides the following data related to the prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:

  • 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
  • Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of people 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
  • This condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4%), those living below the federal poverty level (65.4%), those with less than a high school education (66.9%), and current smokers (64.2%)

What is the cause of gum disease?

Bacteria is always present in your mouth. When you don’t clean it away with brushing and flossing, it causes inflammation. The gums around and between teeth become inflamed.

The film of bacteria first turns to plaque. The plaque is fairly soft. Dental hygienists can remove plaque when they perform a professional dental cleaning.

If the plaque is not cleaned away, it hardens to tartar or calculus.

Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes the teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease process. 

You can reverse gum disease

The good news? Brushing and flossing can get rid of bacteria before it turn into plaque! Therefore, in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed.

Let’s consider how to floss:

  • Cut a length of floss about 18 inches long.
  • Securely wind each end around your middle fingers.
  • Take hold of the floss with your forefinger and thumb leaving about two inches to work with.
  • Thread the floss between two teeth.
  • Hold the floss tightly against the side of the tooth and move it up and away from the gumline. You want to clean the space between the tooth and gum without pulling more gum tissue away, so it’s important to scrape up and out of the pocket.
  • Move the floss around the tooth to clean every surface—especially those that your brush can’t reach. As you use a section of floss, unwind from one hand to access a clean piece. With 18 inches, you should have enough to provide a clean section for every tooth. If you run out, that’s okay. Just toss the used piece and cut a new one.

Some individuals find it easier to start on one end of the upper teeth and clean each gap one by one until they reach the end on the opposite side. Then repeat for the bottom row. Whatever system you decide on, make sure you clean around every tooth, including the back surfaces of the last molars.

Regular checkups and dental cleanings help prevent gum disease. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are taking new patients. Give us a call the request an appointment.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting in Provo, Utah

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Cheek-biting is a common dental concern that can cause discomfort and lead to oral health issues if left unaddressed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, we recognize the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to ensure our patients’ overall oral well-being.

What is Cheek-Biting?

Cheek-biting, also known as cheek chewing or morsicatio buccarum, occurs when individuals inadvertently bite the inside of their cheeks. This habit can be triggered by stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or habitual behaviors, such as chewing on pens or pencils. It can also be accidental based on chewing speed or a reaction to food shape or texture.

Effects of Cheek-Biting

Cheek-biting can lead to various dental and oral health problems, including:

Soft Tissue Damage: Repeated biting can cause injuries to the delicate lining of the cheeks, resulting in pain, inflammation, and the formation of mouth sores.

Chronic Discomfort: Persistent cheek-biting may lead to chronic discomfort and interfere with eating, speaking, and other daily activities.

Increased Risk of Infection: Injured tissues are more susceptible to infection, which can further exacerbate discomfort and compromise oral health.

Addressing Cheek-Biting

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer personalized solutions to help patients overcome cheek-biting habits and mitigate their effects:

Behavioral Modification: Our team works closely with patients to identify triggers and develop strategies to modify behaviors contributing to cheek-biting, such as stress management techniques or oral habit awareness exercises.

Orthodontic Evaluation: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to cheek-biting. We conduct comprehensive orthodontic evaluations to assess the alignment of teeth and jaws and recommend appropriate treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, to correct underlying issues.

Protective Measures: In cases where cheek-biting is primarily nocturnal or subconscious, we may recommend the use of custom-made mouthguards or dental appliances to provide a protective barrier and prevent further injury to the cheeks.

Preventive Measures

While addressing cheek-biting habits is essential, practicing preventive measures can also help minimize its occurrence:

Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or relaxation exercises, can help alleviate anxiety-related triggers for cheek-biting. In some cases, just slow down a bit.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent complications associated with cheek-biting, such as infection or inflammation.

Cheek-biting can have detrimental effects on oral health and quality of life, but with proactive intervention and preventive measures, it can be effectively managed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and personalized solutions to help our patients achieve optimal oral health and well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing issues related to cheek-biting, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore treatment options and regain comfort and confidence in your smile.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, Teeth cleaning

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care and Other Insights from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is Your Partner in Oral Health

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

What is Dental Sleep Medicine?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, sleep apnea

dental sleep medicine Provo

What is dental sleep medicine?  It’s a relatively new branch of dentistry that treats sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing problems.

Don’t confuse dental sleep medicine with dental sedation or sleep dentistry. Dental sleep medicine treats sleep apnea. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we can determine if it’s right for you.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition where you have frequent, intermittent pauses in breathing while sleeping. These pauses can last for up to 60 seconds. They are caused by soft tissue in the back of the throat that relaxes and closes the airway. When the brain is not getting enough oxygen it interferes with important physical processes.

There are three different types of sleep apnea. They are categorized by the cause of the cessation of breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where your throat muscles relax. Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to control your breathing. The final type is called complex sleep apnea syndrome. This form is present when a patient has both of the other two types.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you have several of the following symptoms, we encourage you to see a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders.

  • Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Sleep Deprivation
  • Excessive Snoring
  • Episodes of Not Breathing
  • Mouth Breathing
  • Dry Mouth/Throat
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent Headaches
  • Irritability

How does a sleep apnea dentist treat sleep apnea?

Dentists use oral appliance therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Patients wear a custom-fitted removable oral appliance at night. The appliance fits somewhat like a sports mouthguard.

How does an oral appliance work?

An oral appliance restricts your airway from collapsing. It either holds the tongue or jaw in a forward position.

Does an oral appliance work as well as a CPAP machine?

It depends on the severity of the condition and other considerations specific to the patient. Many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea benefit from OAT.

What are the advantages of OAT over CPAP?

Some men and women find the device more comfortable. It’s smaller and easier to clean than a CPAP system. Patients who suffer from claustrophobia often choose OAT. Patients who move around a lot when they sleep can get twisted up in the CPAP tube. And a small, portable device is easier to travel with.

If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and are interested in OAT, give us a call at the number below.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604