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A dazzling smile can make a lasting impression of confidence and charm; just look at the smiles of Hollywood celebrities. Achieving a Hollywood smile is not reserved for the rich and famous, however. With the advancements in cosmetic dentistry, anyone can transform their teeth and unleash their radiant confidence. Let’s explore the world of cosmetic dentistry and how it can help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Four cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you achieve a Hollywood smile are:

1. Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the easiest and most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments. Over time, our teeth can become stained and discolored due to various factors such as diet, aging, smoking, or certain medications. Teeth whitening treatments can help remove these stains and restore your teeth to their natural whiteness. Professional teeth whitening procedures are safe, effective, and provide long-lasting results, giving you the confidence to smile like a Hollywood star.

2. Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are the go-to solution if you desire a complete smile makeover. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth, transforming their color, shape, size, and alignment. Dental veneers can work wonders whether you have chipped, cracked, or stained teeth or simply want a Hollywood-worthy smile. Cosmetic dentists utilize the latest technology and high-quality materials to create porcelain or composite veneers that blend seamlessly with natural teeth, leaving you with a picture-perfect smile.

3. Invisalign

Gone are the days of bulky metal braces. Invisalign provides a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses a series of virtually invisible aligners to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. This innovative treatment is aesthetically pleasing and offers the convenience of removable aligners, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without any restrictions. With Invisalign, you can achieve a straight, Hollywood-worthy smile without compromising your lifestyle.

4. Dental Implants

Missing teeth affect both your confidence and your oral health. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, ensuring a natural-looking and functional smile. Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as a strong foundation for dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Our skilled cosmetic dentists have the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your smile using dental implants, giving you a complete set of teeth that will have you ready for your close-up.

Your Hollywood Smile Awaits At Smith Dentalworks

If you are ready to unlock your Hollywood smile, Smith Dentalworks is here to help. Our highly skilled team is dedicated to helping you achieve the captivating smile you’ve always dreamed of. From teeth whitening to dental veneers, Invisalign, and dental implants, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments to enhance your smile’s natural beauty. You can trust us to deliver exceptional results in a positive, stress-free environment.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey toward a captivating smile.

Sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder, affects many people worldwide. Roughly 22 million Americans have this condition. Meanwhile, up to 80% of sufferers don’t even know they have it.

Many associate excess weight with sleep apnea. While being overweight increases the risk of sleep apnea, it’s important to understand that this condition can occur at any weight. In this article, we’ll explore the link between sleep apnea and weight, as well as other risk factors involved.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to oxygen deprivation. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway. While excess weight is often associated with sleep apnea, this condition can affect people of various body compositions. Recognizing the risk factors associated with sleep apnea is crucial for early detection and effective management.

The Weight-Sleep Apnea Connection

Obesity is a major risk for sleep apnea. Excess weight can lead to fat buildup around the neck and upper airway, blocking airflow during sleep. This blockage interrupts breathing, causing the pauses typical of sleep apnea. Moreover, being overweight can harm the respiratory system by reducing lung capacity and impairing muscle function.

However, it’s important to remember that individuals at a healthy weight can also develop sleep apnea.

Other risk factors include:

• Age
• Family history
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Certain anatomical factors like a narrow throat or large tonsils
• Hormonal factors, such as menopause in women

Therefore, sleep apnea should not be solely attributed to weight, and a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to identify contributing factors.

The Complex Relationship

Although weight and sleep apnea have a complex relationship, it’s clear that the condition can affect individuals of all weights. Some individuals at a healthy weight may have underlying anatomical or genetic factors that make them more susceptible to sleep apnea. On the other hand, not all individuals with obesity will develop sleep apnea.

Managing weight is important for treating sleep apnea. Losing extra weight can lessen symptom severity and enhance overall health. A healthy lifestyle with exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep habits benefits both weight control and sleep apnea management.

Treating Sleep Apnea

While making lifestyle adjustments can improve sleep apnea symptoms, it’s important to address the abnormalities in the hard and soft tissues in your airway that lead to this condition. The Vivos System makes this possible. This innovative treatment uses a custom oral appliance that you wear while sleeping. After just 12 – 24 months, the system will correct the deficiencies that contribute to your sleep apnea. For most patients, no further treatment is needed. This is compared to other treatments such as CPAP that require lifetime use.

To learn more about sleep apnea treatment, contact us today.

Maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile is a top priority for many individuals. However, various dental issues can arise, such as missing or damaged teeth, that can affect the appearance and functionality of your teeth. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to address these problems, including veneers, crowns, and implants. Understanding the differences between these treatments is crucial to help you make an informed decision about which option is best for you.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth, improving their appearance. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and are an excellent choice for individuals with crooked, discolored, or chipped teeth. Veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth and enhance the overall aesthetics of your smile. Unlike crowns and implants, porcelain veneers are primarily cosmetic and require minimal tooth preparation, making them a less invasive option.

Crowns

Dental crowns, or caps, are designed to cover a decayed or damaged tooth. Crowns are custom-made to match your natural teeth’s shape, size, and color, providing a seamless and natural-looking result. Crowns are commonly recommended for teeth that are extensively decayed, cracked, weakened or have undergone root canal treatment. They restore the tooth’s strength, functionality, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. To accommodate the crown, some amount of tooth structure must be removed.

Implants

Dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the jawbone, a crown is attached to the post, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth. Implants not only restore the functionality of your teeth but also help maintain the health of your jawbone and prevent bone loss. Unlike veneers and crowns, implants require a more involved surgical procedure.

Choosing the Right Option

Deciding which treatment option is right for you depends on several factors, including the condition of your teeth, oral health, and specific goals. Veneers are ideal for individuals with minor cosmetic issues, while crowns are suitable for teeth that require structural reinforcement. Patients with missing teeth often prefer implants because they provide a permanent and stable solution. Consulting with a qualified dentist will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Individualized Dental Care at Smith Dentalworks

At Smith Dentalworks, we understand the importance of a confident and healthy smile. Our team of experienced dentists specializes in family, general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry and can help you choose the best treatment option for you and your loved ones. Whether you require veneers, crowns, or dental implants, we provide personalized and quality care to help you accomplish your desired smile. Don’t wait any longer to achieve the smile of your dreams!

Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards improving your dental health and transforming your smile.

With so many options and specialties, choosing a dentist can often be overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be when you look for a dentist who can do it all. Choosing a clinic that offers comprehensive dental care allows you to rely on one dental practice for the majority of your needs. In this article, we will dive into comprehensive dental care, including what services it offers and its benefits.

What is Comprehensive Dental Care?

There are many different types of dental specialties performed by various dentists, including general dentists, orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists, and oral surgeons. Comprehensive dental care means receiving all these dental services from a single clinic. This type of care considers dental health as a whole rather than focusing on an individual aspect. This predictive and proactive approach to dental care is a beneficial option for both individuals and families.

What Are Services Offered in Comprehensive Dental Care?

Comprehensive dental care services will vary from dentist to dentist but generally include preventative, restorative, and cosmetic care, as well as treating dental emergencies.

Preventative

Preventative dental care focuses on long-term dental health by identifying common dental issues early on to avoid larger problems later in life. Some examples of preventative dentistry include teeth cleanings, fillings, and gum disease treatments.

Restorative

Restorative dental care addresses problems such as missing teeth or advanced tooth decay to restore your mouth to optimal health. This type of care often includes treatments like root canals, dental implants and crowns, and dentures.

Cosmetic

Cosmetic dentistry allows patients to change aspects of their smile’s appearance, such as crooked or stained teeth, to help them feel like the best version of themselves. Teeth whitening and veneers are two common cosmetic treatments.

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can happen at any time and, if left untreated, can lead to further issues. Any injury to your mouth that causes uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, or broken facial bones is considered a dental emergency.

Advantages of Comprehensive Dental Care

When you choose a clinic that offers comprehensive dental care, you can enjoy numerous benefits for your health, well-being, and wallet.

Treatments That Consider Your Whole Mouth

Comprehensive dental care doesn’t just look at your teeth, but rather it considers the health of your mouth as a whole. Rather than just removing a tooth that needs to be removed, a comprehensive dentist will examine the impact that extracting the tooth will have on the rest of your mouth and overall health. They will take the health of your gums, the tissues in your mouth, the function of your jaw muscles and how they affect your bite, and more into account during your treatment plan. 

Develop a Lasting Relationship With Your Dentist

Choosing a comprehensive dentist also allows you to develop a strong relationship with them rather than an introductory relationship with several dentists. Having a lasting relationship with your dentist means they understand your dental history and can offer personalized insight into your treatments that other dentists cannot. It also helps you feel comfortable and less anxious about your visits because you know what to expect.

Save Time, Stress, and Money

Lastly, comprehensive dental clinics are your one-stop shop for all your dental needs, saving you time and stress by treating various potential problems in one place. Rather than waiting for referrals to other clinics and navigating their limited appointment availability, you can visit just one clinic and take the stress out of your dental care.

A Comprehensive Dental Clinic in Oro Valley

At Smith Dentalworks, our top priority is making the highest level of quality dentistry accessible to all patients. Our comprehensive approach to dental care allows you to rely on us for all your dental needs. From dentures to Invisalign to cosmetic procedures, we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our Oro Valley dentists.

 

Quitting smoking is a significant achievement that will improve your short and long-term physical health. However, even if you are no longer a smoker, you may still be dealing with the side effects of the habit. Tooth discoloration, gum disease, and cavities are all common challenges that former smokers face. Luckily, you can reclaim your oral health and beautiful smile with transformative smile makeover procedures.

How Smoking Can Affect Your Smile

Smoking and using other tobacco products is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States and can increase the risk of many chronic diseases. Smoking can also have a significant negative impact on your mouth and teeth.

Teeth Discoloration

One of the most common side effects of smoking is the discoloration of teeth. Tar and nicotine from cigarettes can cause teeth to become yellow and stained, which can be difficult to reverse. 

Gum Disease

In addition to stains and discoloration, smoking can also increase the risk of gum disease. Smoking can cause gums to become swollen and inflamed, making it difficult for the body to fight off bacteria. Swollen gums can lead to periodontal disease, an infection of the gums that can damage the underlying bone and lead to tooth loss.

Increased Risk of Cavities

Smokers may also find that they are more likely to develop cavities. Tar and nicotine from cigarettes can adhere to the teeth and make them more prone to decay. Saliva production can also be reduced in smokers, making it harder for the mouth to wash away plaque and bacteria naturally.

Improving Your Smile After Smoking With Cosmetic Dentistry

Smokers are often aware that their habit has caused extensive damage to their teeth but may not realize the variety of options available for a smile makeover after they stop smoking. A smile makeover is a combination of treatments designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, as well as your overall smile. 

 

Here are some of the most popular options for a smile makeover after smoking:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular option for a smile makeover after smoking. This procedure can help to reduce the discoloration and staining caused by smoking. Depending on the severity of the staining, professional teeth whitening treatments may be recommended to ensure the best results.

Veneers

Another procedure for a smile makeover is porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Dental veneers can be used to cover discoloration, chips, cracks, gaps, and other imperfections caused by smoking.

Crowns

Former smokers may also opt for dental crowns as part of their smile makeover. Crowns are full-coverage dental restorations used to improve the appearance and strength of the teeth. Crowns can help cover discoloration, chips, and other smoking damage.

Dental Implants

A fourth possible procedure in a post-smoking smile makeover is dental implants. Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They are a beneficial option for restoring your smile after smoking, as they look and feel like natural teeth.

Bonding

Lastly, you may include dental bonding in a smile makeover after smoking. Bonding is a procedure that repairs chips and other minor imperfections in the teeth and can restore the appearance of your teeth after smoking.

Improve Your Smile After Smoking With Smith Dentalworks

If you are a former smoker and want to improve the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover with Smith Dentalworks may be the right choice. Our excellent oral surgeons are well-versed in the above procedures and can help you decide which options are best for you. We strive to provide personalized care and one-on-one attention to every patient who visits our Oro Valley dental office.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment to get the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.

In recent years, continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) lawsuits have been on the rise. CPAP is a form of sleep apnea therapy used to help those suffering from the condition get a better and more restful night’s sleep. These machines provide a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask delivered to the patient’s nose and mouth. However, some CPAP users have experienced various side effects due to the use of the device, leading to the filing of lawsuits. Fortunately, there are several alternative methods for treating sleep apnea, including the Vivos System.

Philips Respironics CPAP Lawsuits

Philips Respironics, a leading manufacturer of CPAP devices, has been involved in several lawsuits centered on allegations of defective design and manufacturing, as well as violations of consumer protection laws. The allegations have included the failure of the devices to perform as advertised, malfunctions resulting in injury or harm, and failure to provide adequate warnings and instructions regarding the use of these devices. Due to possible carcinogenic and toxic effects, the company recently recalled millions of its CPAP, bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP), and mechanical ventilator devices. 

 

The first lawsuit against Philips Respironics involved an individual who suffered a severe burn while using a CPAP device. The plaintiff alleged that the device malfunctioned and caused the burn. In another case, a patient alleged that a Philips Respironics CPAP device caused them to suffer a serious eye injury. The plaintiff further alleged that the device lacked a filter to protect users from dangerous particles and gasses released while it was in use. Ingesting or inhaling these particles is linked to carcinogenic and toxic effects, respiratory problems, and chemical exposure risk.

Alternatives to CPAP

While the filing of CPAP lawsuits is on the rise, other alternatives for those suffering from sleep apnea may be more effective and less disruptive. 

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to CPAP machines, there are other alternatives for those suffering from sleep apnea. These alternatives include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and sleeping on your side, as well as the use of medications to help relax the muscles in the throat and open the airway.

Oral Appliances

A highly-effective option for sleep apnea treatment is using oral appliances to open the airway and reduce snoring. One type of oral appliance is the Vivos System. This system involves a collaboration between dentists and physicians to create a custom oral appliance that corrects the deficiencies that lead to sleep apnea. These devices are designed to fit comfortably into the mouth and can be adjusted to provide the most comfortable sleeping experience. 

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, it is vital for those suffering from sleep apnea to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their condition. CPAP malfunctions are a possibility, and other alternatives may be more effective and less disruptive for those suffering from sleep apnea. By consulting with a healthcare provider, patients can find the best solution to help them get a better and more restful night’s sleep.

Discover An Alternative to CPAP With Smith Dentalworks

If you are tired of feeling exhausted due to mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, Smith Dentalworks can help. We proudly offer the Vivos System as an alternative to CPAP for sleep apnea treatment. In collaboration with Vivos-approved doctors, this innovative option is non-surgical and pain-free and typically does not require further intervention after using the system for 12 to 24 months.

Contact our office today to learn more about our sleep apnea treatment.

Maintaining your oral health is essential, and the benefits extend beyond the appearance of your smile. Taking care of your teeth helps preserve your overall physical health and can also affect your self-confidence and how you interact with others. However, going to the dentist can be intimidating for many people. One way to improve the experience is to find a dentist who uses innovative dental technology in their practice. New technology can improve your experience at the dentist’s office in a variety of ways.

Here are a few benefits of innovative dental technology:

1. Pain-Free Dentistry

Thanks to new dental technology, the experience of going to the dentist has become virtually pain-free for many patients. The latest tools and techniques provide an unprecedented level of comfort. Laser dentistry can be used to treat and remove decay with minimal discomfort. Many patients say it feels similar to eating a snow cone and comes with a slightly cold sensation, but no pain. With the help of dental lasers and other new technologies, dental treatment can now be a painless and simple experience.

2. New Treatment Options

Some technological advances in dentistry have expanded the options that are available for patients. For example, the Vivos system provides an innovative sleep apnea treatment. Patients work with a Vivos-approved dentist, who creates a custom oral appliance that corrects the issues that lead to sleep apnea. This option is more comfortable than a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine and at the end of the treatment period, most patients don’t require further interventions.

3. Environmental Friendliness

Innovative new dental technology has revolutionized the environmental friendliness of dentists’ offices. Digital x-rays and digital impressions have replaced traditional x-rays and dental impressions, which use large amounts of hazardous chemicals and materials. Digital x-rays also emit up to 90% less radiation than traditional x-rays. With these innovations, dentists are able to not only help improve patient experience but also help our planet at the same time.

Dental Technology At Smith Dentalworks

At our Oro Valley dental office, we strive to provide informative, innovative, and individualized care. The second pillar of our practice (“innovative”) encompasses our commitment to seeking out and using the best new technology. We use all the technology previously mentioned in this article to improve the experience we provide. We don’t use new technology simply for the sake of having the latest and best tools; we do it for the benefit of our patients, and we make sure to clearly explain why we use the processes and treatments we do.

Dental Care In Oro Valley

If you need a dentist in Oro Valley, we can help. We provide a wide range of treatments including cosmetic smile makeovers, intensive restorative dental care, and sleep apnea treatment. Of course, we also provide general and preventive dentistry for our patients.

Contact us today to learn more about our innovative dental office.

Crooked, misaligned teeth are more common than you might think among children and adults alike. But what contributes to teeth becoming crowded, twisted, or overlapped? 

Here are five key factors that cause crooked teeth:

1. Genetics

Genetics is one of the most common causes of crooked teeth. In some cases, crowded teeth are related to jaw size, as smaller mouths have a greater chance of causing misaligned teeth. Other conditions that lead to crooked teeth are jaw shape, having too many teeth (hyperdontia), overbites, underbites, or poor tooth development. Like our hair or eye color, these causes are hereditary and passed down from our parents, giving us no control over them. 

2. Childhood Habits

Crooked teeth can also result from childhood habits. If you did not inherit your crooked teeth, you might have contributed to them by thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting as a baby. The pressure from your thumb or tongue applied to still-growing gums causes the teeth to grow outwards, especially if the habit continues until the toddler age. Mouth breathing, prolonged bottle feeding, or using a pacifier beyond the age of three can also lead to improper teeth positioning. 

3. Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene habits, especially those formed at a young age, are another leading cause of crooked teeth. If you do not practice good oral hygiene, you could develop gingivitis, which is the early stages of gum disease. If left untreated, this disease can progress into periodontitis, a severe gum disease that causes your teeth to loosen, shift, or fall out. Take the time to brush and floss your teeth every day and visit a dentist at least once a year to get rid of plaque build-up and ensure that your teeth remain straight and healthy.

4. Facial Trauma

Facial trauma is responsible for the most severe instances of crooked teeth. Jaw or mouth injuries from sports or other accidents as a child can cause teeth displacement. When teeth shift due to injury or illness, the remaining teeth will slowly move over time to make up for that open space. 

5. Malnutrition

The food you eat directly affects the health of your teeth. Getting enough nutrients in your diet is as critical for your tooth development as it is for your other bones, muscles, and tissues. 

If you are malnourished, especially as a child, it stunts growth because the body doesn’t have sufficient nutrients to facilitate proper teeth growth. Malnourishment can result in tooth decay and poor dental development, potential precursors to crooked teeth, amongst other health issues. 

Straighten Crooked Teeth at Smith Dentalworks

If crooked or misaligned teeth are negatively impacting your health or self-confidence, then Smith Dentalworks can help. We have solutions to straighten crooked teeth, including Invisalign. We believe in individualized dental care and take the time to get to know our patients and understand their specific needs before developing a personalized treatment plan. 

To take the first step toward the beautiful smile you deserve, contact our Oro Valley dental office to schedule an appointment today.

Losing most or all of your natural teeth is not an enjoyable experience for anyone, and no one understands that like the team at Smith Dentalworks. Luckily, there are multiple ways to restore your previous smile or achieve one of your dreams. While conventional dentures used to be the only option for replacing missing teeth, other methods, such as implant-supported dentures, are rising in popularity. No matter which type better fits your lifestyle, educating yourself on each choice is crucial. Weigh the pros and cons of implant-supported and traditional dentures in our blog below to discover which method works best for you. 

Conventional Dentures

Conventional dentures are the oral appliance that most people are familiar with. These dentures are crafted from an acrylic base attached to a set of either full or partial artificial teeth. They rest on the top of your gums and are removed at night to be cleaned. 

Pro – Affordable

One of the biggest advantages of conventional dentures is that they are affordable because they do not require oral surgery. If you are on a limited budget and need a cost-effective replacement for multiple teeth, this is a great option.

Pro – Easy to Care For

Another positive aspect of his method is that conventional dentures are easily cleaned. Since they are removable, you are not obstructed by your mouth or hand when brushing your teeth. You can also soak them in a solution overnight, cleaning and maintaining your dentures more thoroughly than brushing alone.

Con – Fit Can Change

A downside to the traditional method is that this oral appliance may need to be replaced every five to eight years. Bone loss over time affects the shape of your jaw and gums, changing the fit of your dentures. This may cause them to shift uncomfortably in your mouth throughout the day or even fall out.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that is anchored to dental implants inserted in the jawbone with titanium screws. Unlike the conventional method, these dentures stay in place permanently and are cleaned inside your mouth like natural teeth.

Pro – Secure

Since they are anchored in place, implant-supported dentures are secure in your mouth. They give your teeth structural support, allowing for a more comfortable and natural fit. This allows you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile freely throughout the day. 

Pro – Improves Oral Health

Another important aspect that sets implant-supported dentures apart from conventional methods is that they play a role in improving oral health. They virtually eliminate bone loss by stimulating healthy growth in your jaw bone where they are anchored. This prevents the development of a sunken appearance that is often associated with tooth loss.

Con – Cost

One of the drawbacks of this type of denture is the cost. They are more expensive than their traditional counterparts, and dental insurance will not always cover the price of implants. However, many patients find that the benefits and longevity of this method outweigh the fees.

Choosing the Right Type of Dentures For You

Whether you decide conventional or implant-supported dentures are a better fit for your lifestyle, Smith Dentalworks can help restore your smile. We offer multiple denture options and will discuss your specific situation with you to make tailored recommendations based on your needs.

To discuss conventional and implant-supported denture methods, contact a professional at Smith Dentalworks today.

Getting enough high-quality sleep each night is essential for your health and well-being. Unfortunately, many people do not sleep enough or have poor sleep when they do manage to rest. Sometimes this is due to external factors, but sleep disorders play a role as well. Up to 70 million adults in the United States suffer from one or more sleep disorders, and sleep apnea is a common one. It’s helpful to understand the biggest risk factors for developing sleep apnea and to talk to a professional if you have concerns about your sleep.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

First, what exactly is sleep apnea? This is a sleep disorder where a person repeatedly stops breathing during sleep. This is often, but not always, accompanied by snoring. It’s also important to note that not all snoring occurs due to sleep apnea.

There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive (OSA), central (CSA), and complex. OSA occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway. CSA occurs when your brain fails to tell your body to breathe regularly during sleep. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of these two forms.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase an individual’s risk of developing sleep apnea. It’s important to be aware that none of these guarantees that a person will have the condition, and even someone without any risk factors can have sleep apnea.

Here are some of the most common sleep apnea risk factors:

• Weight: Studies have shown a correlation between an increased body mass index (BMI) and the risk of developing sleep apnea.
• Age: Risk increases the older a person gets, up until the 60s or 70s.
• Anatomy: Those with a larger tongue and/or a shorter, lower jaw are more likely to develop OSA.
• Sex: Males are more likely to develop sleep apnea, especially in early adulthood.
• Smoking: Individuals who smoke cigarettes are more likely to have sleep apnea. Quitting smoking reduces this risk.
• Hormonal Conditions: Certain hormonal abnormalities and conditions, such as an underactive thyroid, can contribute to swelling near the airway, increasing the risk of sleep apnea. Many of these conditions also affect body weight, which could explain the increased risk.
• Family History: If others in your family have developed OSA, you may be at a greater risk.
• Other Medical Issues: Heart and lung conditions can increase the risk of sleep apnea.

Signs Of Sleep Apnea

If you have any of the above risk factors, it’s worth paying extra attention to see if you notice signs of sleep apnea. Again, since anyone can develop this condition even without risk factors, it’s worth seeing a doctor if you see these signs regardless of other factors.

• Snoring
• Gasping for air at night
• Dry mouth upon waking
• Mood changes, e.g. irritability
• Difficulty staying focused during the day
• Lower libido
• Dizziness
• Sleepiness during the day
• Urinating frequently during the night
• Insomnia
• Morning headaches
• Forgetfulness
• Excessive sweating during the night

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Treating sleep apnea improves your quality of sleep and helps preserve your health. At Smith Dentalworks, we collaborate with Vivos doctors to offer the innovative Vivos system. This reshapes your palate and helps correct sleep apnea, providing lasting relief.

Contact us today to learn more about your options for sleep apnea treatment in Tucson.