Sleep Apnea & Snoring

Sleep Apnea & Snoring in Rochester NY

Many residents of Rochester, NY have sleep apnea or other snoring-related problems. In fact, more than 25 million American adults suffer from sleep apnea. At Dr. David K Skeels, we help educate patients about these problems while we offer helpful therapies.

Snoring

In Rochester, NY, snoring affects both children and adults, although the problem can be worse in adults. Most adults snore at some point in their lives, a condition that may arise from nasal congestion, obesity, smoking, or alcohol. While snoring mostly interrupts a partner or roommate's sleep, particularly loud snoring can actually wake the snorer as well.

Generally speaking, snoring occurs more commonly in men, but it can occur in women as well, especially during/after menopause. Snoring can also indicate a more serious condition like sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea varies from patient to patient; the obstructive variety is the most common type.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs chronically and can cause breathing cessation during sleep. These breathing gaps can last as long as a minute. Just as snoring affects Rochester, NY patients of both sexes, sleep apnea affects mostly men and some women in the same way as mentioned in the snoring section, above.

Sleep apnea signs include snoring, gasping, or choking sounds. Most of the time, a partner will notice these symptoms before the sufferer does. Those who are smoke, drink alcohol, or become obese face a higher risk of sleep apnea. Physical attributes such as narrow airways or misaligned jaws also increase one's risk.

Sleep apnea can have serious effects on a patient's life. Even after getting a full night's sleep, those with apnea may still feel tired. This fatigue increases the risk of accidents on the road and in the workplace.

Additionally, sufferers may experience headaches, forgetfulness, and a multitude of health problems. For instance, diabetes, heart disease, abnormal blood pressure, and strokes can all develop alongside sleep apnea.

Dental Appliance Therapy

If you snore or think you may have sleep apnea, first see a sleep therapy specialist. He or she will evaluate your sleeping patterns and conditions. The evaluation may include out-of-home observation or a take home assessment. Once your doctor makes a diagnosis, he or she can discuss treatment options.

Oral appliance therapy is just one treatment option. Your doctor can refer you to a dentist for examination and a dental appliance fitting.

After dental fittings, patients wear an oral appliance while asleep. This appliance is similar to a retainer or mouth guard. The shape supports the jaw to encourage an open airway. Your dentist constructs the appliance to fit comfortably in your mouth.

For more information on how dental appliances can improve your health, visit our mouth guards page.

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Dr. Skeels has been my dentist for over 25 years. He and the rest of the staff are always friendly and create a family atmosphere. The office is always on time for appointments and provides excellent dental care both for cleanings and repairs."
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"Dr. Skeels is a very professional caring an amazing Dentist. Been with him for many years with exceptional care. He also has a very kind and caring staff with great experience in their field. Some have been with him for many years. I used to be very frightened of going to the Dentist. But since going to Dr. Skeels he has made me feel very comfortable, explains exactly what he's going to do and puts me @ ease. I highly recommend Dr. Skeels and his office. You won't be disappointed !!"

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"My wife and I have been going to Dr. Skeels for 15 years, besides his team being professional we want to also add that all his equipment is state of the art. When ever we have had an emergency he is always willing to get you in as soon as possible which to us is of the upmost importance. We would highly recommend him to any one."

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"I and all of my family members have been patients of Dr Skeels for many years. I am very pleased with all of the dental work he has performed for me. The office atmosphere and staff is friendly, knowledgeable and professional. Most people dont look forward to a visit to the dentist but the experience here is very calming and caring. You are made comfortable and everything is explained to you in the detail required. I highly recommend Dr Skeels. I trusted him with the care of all of my family and I have been totally pleased with the care and services provided."

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