General Wellness Health

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep related breathing disorder in which the soft tissue at the back of the throat closes the airway so air cannot flow into the lungs. This airway blockage can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the brain and the body.

How do I know that I may have sleep apnea?
The most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are:

  • Loud snoring
  • Significant daytime sleepiness
  • Restless sleep
  • Teeth Clenching
  • Acid Reflux

Solution:

If any of the above symptoms apply to you, you may have obstructive sleep apnea. Dentists are the only health care provider with the knowledge and expertise to provide you with an oral appliance.

Oral appliance therapy can improve obstructive sleep apnea in adult patients, especially those who are intolerant of a continuous positive pressure device (CPAP). If risks are determined, a referral to your healthcare provider for a sleep study will be made.

Lake Dental
Dr. Burbank
11 Professionals Circle
Seneca, SC 29678
864.882.0134

Dental General Wellness

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the hard outer surface that protects our teeth grows thinner, or when gum recession occurs, exposing nerve endings.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

  • Tooth sensitivity can also be caused by acidic conditions in the mouth, usually from acidic, or sugary beverages.
  • Acidic foods can also cause exposed nerve endings on tooth root surfaces.
  • Abrasive toothpastes and brushing vigorously can wear the outer layer of a tooth.
  • Clenching/grinding over time can eventually wear down the outer layer of the teeth causing sensitivity. It can even cause wear at the gum line.

Treatment:

  1. Prescription strength fluoride toothpaste such as Clin-Pro
  2. Over the counter toothpaste: Sensodyne
  3. In-office surface desensitizer
  4. In-office fluoride varnish

Lake Dental
Dr. Burbank
11 Professionals Circle
Seneca, SC 29678
864.882.0134

Dental General Wellness Health

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be more than just uncomfortable and aggravating. When it goes on over time, it can significantly increase your risk of developing tooth decay.

What causes dry mouth?

Dry mouth is caused when the body produces little to no saliva. It can be a symptom of a medical condition, or it may be caused by other factors, including but not limited to:

  • Certain medications (e.g., BP, Allergy and Pain meds)
  • Certain emotional states (e.g., Depression/Anxiety)
  • Some Medical Treatments (e.g., Head and neck radiation)

What can you do to feel better?

First and foremost good oral hygiene is crucial for anyone who wants to maintain a healthy mouth, but it is especially important for those suffering from dry mouth. The following are some important recommendations to help people with dry mouth feel relief:

  • Sip water or sugar-free drinks
  • Chew sugar-free gum, or suck on sugar-free candy
  • Mouth rinse such as over-the-counter or a prescription rinse
  • Clin-Pro prescription toothpaste
  • Use a humidifier, especially at night

Lake Dental
Dr. Burbank
11 Professionals Circle
Seneca, SC 29678
864.882.0134