Hello to all our patients and friends at Polin Dental! I’m Dr. Carly Polin, and I’m happy to share some important updates in dentistry that go beyond your smile. At our Boca Raton office, we focus on caring for your whole health, not just your teeth and gums. Today, I want to talk about how dentists are helping with sleep apnea and airway problems. These conditions affect millions and can really impact daily life.
Understanding Sleep Apnea and Airway Problems
Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring. It’s a serious sleep disorder where breathing stops and starts many times during the night. The most common type, called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when throat muscles relax too much and block the airway. This can cause poor sleep, tiredness during the day, and higher risks for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Airway problems, often related to jaw alignment or narrow passages, can make these issues worse for both children and adults.
Traditionally, treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines have been common, but they are not always comfortable or effective for everyone. This is where dentistry can help. Dentists are well positioned to spot and treat these problems because we can see signs in your mouth during regular checkups, such as worn teeth from grinding or a small jaw.
Recent Advances: Dentists at the Forefront
There is exciting news in dentistry about our expanding role in sleep health. A recent article in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) says that the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine is developing new dental therapies to help manage OSA and snoring. While these new treatments do not yet replace current ones, dentists can now provide care that includes early detection of airway growth problems in children and the use of new treatment options.
Airway dentistry is a fast-growing field that connects sleep medicine and oral health. Dentists now use tools like mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and custom oral appliances to keep airways open by gently moving the jaw during sleep. These devices are often more comfortable than CPAP machines and can be very effective for mild to moderate cases, with success rates up to 80% for snoring and OSA, according to consumer education. Recent studies also link teeth grinding (bruxism) to sleep apnea, showing that treating one can help with the other.
At events such as the ADA’s talks on sleep and airway health, experts point out that untreated OSA is not just a health risk. It is also a chance for dental practices to help patients in meaningful ways. New advances, such as digital dentures and custom sleep appliances, are making treatment more comfortable and easier to access.
How Polin Dental Can Help You Breathe Easier
At Polin Dental, we are proud to offer sleep apnea treatment as part of our services. If you have chronic snoring, feel tired during the day, or think you might have airway problems, we can check for these during your regular visits. Our team uses advanced oral appliances made just for you, helping you sleep better without bulky machines. We also treat related issues like TMJ/TMD, which often occur with sleep disorders. As a second-generation dentist building on my father, Dr. Martin Polin's legacy, I prioritize patient comfort and innovative care. We've helped countless Boca Raton residents wake up refreshed and healthier—just ask our patients who've shared stories of life-changing improvements!
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
If you or someone you care about is having trouble sleeping, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with us today to talk about screening and treatment options. Getting help early can improve your health and energy. Call our office at 561-997-2323 or visit the website to make an appointment with Boca Raton's Best Dentist, Dr. Carly Polin.
Remember, a good night’s sleep starts with a healthy airway. We are here to help.
Keep smiling (and sleeping soundly)!
Dr. Carly Polin
Polin Dental
2600 N Military Trail #320
Boca Raton, FL 33431