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Sleep Apnea: Know the Causes, Complications, and Treatment

BY Short Pump Family Dentistry

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by breathing pauses that takes place multiple times an hour, which can last for a few seconds to a few minutes. It is hard for sleep apnea sufferers to get any decent sleep since they may pause breathing for up to 100 times a night. However, there is more to sleep apnea than just sleepless nights. Here are some things to know about the said condition, read on below!

Sleep Apnea: Causes

Several factors can cause a person to suffer from sleep apnea, but the leading one has to do with the throat. This body part has the muscles that control speaking, swallowing, and breathing. However, when sleeping, these muscles tend to become less active, and they can even cause the narrowing of the throat. Although this does not affect most people, there are those who snore loudly and to others a complete blockage of the airway—obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

To other people, the pauses in their breathing are caused by the brain’s failure in sending the proper signal to the breath-controlling muscles. This particular case is another type of sleep apnea that is less common, referred to as central sleep apnea (CSA).

Sleep Apnea: Complications

Here are some of the effects that come with sleep apnea that makes it vital for patients to seek treatment:

  • Trouble concentrating
  • Contribute to anxiety
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Brain damage
  • Daytime fatigue
  • Increased risk in getting into accidents


At our practice, we understand that not most people find CPAP machines as the ideal solution to sleep apnea that is why we offer an alternative in the form of an oral appliance to be worn at night. The good news is, the said device can even help people who snore and those who grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep.


If you’re suffering from a sleep disorder that causes breathing pauses, then it may be Sleep Apnea! Book your appointment immediately at Short Pump Family Dentistry for Sleep Apnea Treatment in Richmond, VA. You can visit us at 201 Towne Center West Blvd. #709, Richmond, VA 23233.

We’re passionate about patient care

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