Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

The Dentist and Sleep Apnea

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

The Dentist and Sleep Apnea

Dentistry today is doing much more than fixing teeth. Today dentists save lives! Yes that right saves lives! How so you say. By recognizing and informing patients that they may be suffering with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

As a dentist we get to see our patients generally 2- 4 times a year. This opportunity is fantastic to screen for disease, especially for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Our hygienists are trained to observe for symptoms that may indicate a patient is living with sleep apnea.

We recently had a patient come to our office complaining of TMJ pain. After careful evaluation, I informed that her problem was OSA. She couldn't believe that this was her problem. Then we discussed the fact that she snores, has a large neck, is somewhat over weight, has high blood pressure and often wakes up in the middle of the night. All signs of OSA. Fortunately I convinced her that I wasn't crazy! Today we received a phone call today from this very patient telling us that we changed her life. She was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea and is using her CPAP nightly. She now sleeps through the night, is no longer snoring and her TMJ pain is gone.

So the next time your dentist tells you that you have a problem that on the surface looks as though it has nothing to do with dentistry. Please give the thought serious consideration. If you believe that you indeed may be suffering with Sleep Apnea. Please give us a call at 561-394-9000 and we would be willing to provide you with a complimentary screening.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.