March brings along an important observance dedicated to one of the most crucial aspects of our health: sleep. As we mark Sleep Awareness Month, the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM) prompts everyone to understand sleep disorders and evaluate their sleep health, particularly focusing on obstructive sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea stands as the most common sleep-related breathing disorder, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep as your throat muscles relax, blocking your airway. Signs of this disorder include loud snoring and gasping or choking in your sleep. Additionally, individuals with obstructive sleep apnea tend to experience excessive daytime sleepiness and morning headaches, making them irritable and less focused during the day.
Acknowledging Sleep Awareness Month provides everyone a chance to take a proactive stance towards their health, beginning with understanding these symptoms and seeking proper treatment, an integral part of which might indeed be provided by biological dentistry. Different treatments for obstructive sleep apnea range from machines maintaining an open airway during sleep, to mouthpieces aligning the lower jaw forward, or even surgery in some cases.
Linking with biological dentistry, could approach this issue holistically. Addressing underlying causes, assessing risk factors such as excess weight, hypertension, smoking, and even hereditary narrow airways, our biological dentists can guide treatment decisions best suited for each individual.
Untreated obstructive sleep apnea could lead to severe complications, from daytime fatigue and poor concentration to serious cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Research has also revealed connections to diabetes and chronic nasal congestion. If you snore loudly, experience breathing pauses during sleep, or find yourself excessively tired during the day, consult a healthcare professional.
This Sleep Awareness Month, take some time to evaluate not only your sleep patterns but also the quality of your rest. Remember, good sleep health is a cornerstone of wellbeing and biological dentistry could be an important tool in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea. The IABDM encourages everyone not only to invest in better sleep but also to explore the role of biological dentistry in promoting all-around health. Sleep well for a healthy tomorrow.
The International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM) is a network of dentists, physicians, and health professionals committed to promoting biological dentistry. Visit us online to learn how our health practitioners are promoting optimal health through the use of non-toxic dental materials.