SoftTouch Dentistry of Brighton

Products And Services

• Cosmetic Botox

  Look As Young As You Feel! Aging skin and wrinkles result from a combination of many factors. It’s not just about cellular changes, collagen depletion, hormone loss, or damage caused by free radicals. Wrinkles develop from a combination of many things and how the skin wrinkles is a complex process. Those vertical lines that appear between your brows result from muscle contractions. When you concentrate, squint, or frown, the muscles between your brows contract, causing your skin to furrow and fold. After years of frequent contraction, those wrinkles can linger even after the muscles are at rest. Cosmetic Botox for men Results after just 14 days Benefits of Botox® include: Botox® is FDA-approved and has a 30-year track record for both safety and effectiveness. There is minimal “downtime”; most patients return to their usual activities immediately following the Botox® treatment. The procedure is non-invasive. A Botox® treatment can be quickly performed in our office on your lunch break. Studies have shown Botox® to be effective in reducing frown lines from 70%-80%. Injecting Botox® into contracted forehead muscles can smooth and straighten the skin, and give you a more youthful appearance. Botox® Cosmetic weakens the muscles responsible for squinting and crinkling of the eye area. The treatment effectively reduces or eliminates crow’s feet and other wrinkles around the eyes. Because Botox® treatments are so effective in improving moderate to severe frown lines between the brows, many patients have them as an alternative to a brow lift. ​ You Only Get One Chance To Make A First Impression If you feel that crowsfeet around your eyes, frown lines, facial creases, or those pesky lines on your upper lip are making you look older and not the real you…NOW you can look as good as you feel. Give the gift of youthfulness to yourself! Botox® will help restore your confidence and your youthful appearance. In fact researchers found that people treated with Botox® received higher scores in the areas of attractiveness, confidence, job and dating success, and generally making you look friendlier. So, if you’re not happy, with those lines, you do have options Cosmetic Botox for women Results after just 14 days To schedule your COMPLIMNETARY COSMETIC CONSULTATION call us at: Brighton Office: (617) 782-9250 Newton Office: (617) 332-8146 What else is Botox® used for? Although Botox® injections are most well known as a cosmetic procedure for the reduction of facial wrinkles, it is also used in the treatment of several medical conditions. It’s also been proven effective at relaxing the muscles in the jaw that cause some of the common symptoms of Bruxism, clenching and grinding of the teeth. The procedure typically provides relief within a week.

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• Bruxism

  Bruxism Is A Condition In Which You Grind, Gnash Or Clench Your Teeth If you have bruxism, you may unconsciously clench your teeth when you’re awake (awake bruxism) or clench or grind them during sleep (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder. People who clench or grind their teeth during sleep are more likely to have other sleep disorders, such as snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea). Bruxism Offering the latest treatments for Bruxism Symptoms Signs and symptoms of bruxism may include: Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to wake up your sleep partner Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth Increased tooth pain or sensitivity Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won’t open or close completely Jaw, neck or face pain or soreness Pain that feels like an earache, though it’s actually not a problem with your ear Dull headache starting in the temples Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek Sleep disruption Benefits of Therapeutic Botox® One of the most common benefits of the procedure is the reduction in the frequency and intensity of your jaw clenching. It reduces the damage to your gums, teeth, and jaw joint, and decrease the pain and discomfort in your facial muscles. By injecting small doses of Therapeutic Botox® directly into the masseter muscle (the large muscle that moves the jaw), the muscle is weakened enough to stop involuntary grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. This significantly relaxes the muscle and reduces the wear and tear on the teeth due to grinding. Brighton Office: (617) 782-9250 Newton Office: (617) 332-8146

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• Laser Dentistry

  Dr. Bidabadi believes in staying at the forefront of emerging dental technology for her procedural options, but, more importantly, for her patients. Here are some of the benefits of our use of laser dentistry: Soft tissue work, such as gum contouring or addressing gum disease, often doesn’t require sutures. Certain procedures don’t require anesthesia. Patients unnerved by the sound of a dental drill can relax. Lasers instantly sterilize the treatment areas. Damage to surrounding tissue is minimized. Wounds heal faster. Tissue regenerates more efficiently. Procedures can be done more quickly. Where Can Lasers Be Used At Soft-Touch? Dr. Bidabadi continues to expand her use of Biolase lasers. Here are some areas she has incorporated this technology: Periodontal disease — When cleaning periodontal pockets, the laser vaporizes infected tissue, disinfecting the area and triggering tissue re-growth at the same time. As the laser energy penetrates the gum tissue, it instantly seals blood vessels and nerve endings. This dramatically reduces post-procedure pain, and encourages faster healing. Here’s where we use the laser for periodontal disease: Root planing and scaling Removal of bacteria and infected tissue from periodontal pockets Surgical reshaping of the gums to reduce periodontal pockets To enhance reattachment of the gums back to the tooth root Gum contouring — Lasers are excellent for addressing gummy smiles, creating a more symmetrical gumline, and for preparing the gumline when readying a tooth for a crown. Other soft tissue uses — From exposing unerupted permanent teeth in children to freeing the tongue in a frenectomy, from removing tissue from partially exposed wisdom teeth to treating canker sores and other lesions, we keep expanding our soft-tissue laser uses. Hard tissue uses — We use our lasers to remove tooth decay without needing to drill. We also use the laser to prepare the surrounding enamel for the composite resin filling of the cavity. Lasers are very effective for excavating deep pits and fissures in the molars prior to filling them with sealants. Laser energy effectively etches the tooth enamel, making it a better surface when bonding or applying sealants. What Types Of Lasers Does Soft-Touch Have? We have invested in Biolase lasers, both the Waterlase Express, and the Epic 10. Waterlase Express — This is an all-tissue laser, giving us the widest range of possible applications. The Waterlase system uses a combination of laser energy, air, and water spray. Since human teeth are partially made of water, when the laser energy contacts the tooth it excites the water molecules to cut through the tooth. This makes hard-tissue work such as the removal of decay a drill-free experience. Plus, it dramatically reduces the need for anesthetic. Epic 10 — The Epic 10 is one of the world’s most widely used diode lasers specifically for soft-tissue use. It provides three distinct treatment modes: surgery, pain relief, and teeth whitening. Are Dental Lasers Painful? The power of lasers can make some patients believe they must also be painful. The opposite is actually true. Because the laser wavelengths are absorbable by water and hemoglobin, the laser energy can instantly vaporize infected gum tissue without the need for a scalpel. And because the energy instantly coagulates the blood vessels and seals nerve endings, there is dramatically less pain and usually, the incisions don’t require sutures.

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• Dental Implants

  What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants? Implants offer the same look and function of your teeth and assures the natural appearance of perfect teeth. Implants are permanent. They function much like your natural teeth and offer a strong foundation for the dental bridge or replacement tooth that could later be attached to it. Implants are a huge improvement over typical dentures or old school bridges. Dental implants can be more comfortable, perform better, and last longer! Dental implants not only look natural and beautiful, they also allow improvement of speech, and will not cause slurring or impede your speech like some ill-fitting dental appliances could often cause. Unlike dentures, implant patients can brush and floss normally. You can undergo a single tooth procedure, which can be the best way to replace an extracted tooth or a damaged/diseased tooth. You can also replace multiple teeth if needed. Multiple teeth can be replaced or restored with implant bridges or multiple individual dental implants. All on dental implants, or mini-dental implants can be the best choice for full upper or lower smiles. All-on implants can normally be utilized without the need for bone grafting, and can be the preferred alternative to dentures. Implant Supported Dentures. The old-fashioned dentures may not fit right due to improper placement, or may hurt due to movements. Implant dentures (Stabilized dentures) may be the perfect alternative. They can be popped-in and out, or placed as permanent. Sometimes, your dentures can be adapted to be reinforced by implants or mini-dental implants. Here’s the most important advantage for implant patients: Your Smile Will Feel Natural, Look Beautiful And Engage Others In A Way You May Not Have Experienced In Decades! Implant Patients Yes, there are many critical medical benefits that come with your new implants. But as important as they are…most patients are thrilled with being able to show a bright, winning smile that other people are inherently attracted to! What Should I Expect During My Tooth Implant Procedure? Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jaw where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing. The base which acts as the root of the tooth is surgically placed in the place of the missing tooth. The implanted base is monitored until it heals and fuses in place. A connector post is then connected to the implant and used to hold the artificial tooth that will fill the gap between the missing teeth. Dental implants have the same look and feel of your natural teeth and will require the same dental care. After the procedure, you will feel like you never lost your teeth as there is no discomfort, pain or misaligned bite. Nothing left but a natural, attractive and reassuring smile! Dental implant patients are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life without embarrassment. If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry could be the choice for you, here’s what we offer: A Comprehensive, No-Cost, No Obligation Cosmetic Dentistry Exam. This Exam Normally Costs $180, And Is Totally FREE! The Exam Includes The Following Services: A full mouth review of your teeth Provide you with an assessment and options. Will examine any recent X-Rays that you bring in. The health of your gums will be examined During the exam, your specific concerns, desires and considerations will be addressed by your doctor. We can then make the proper recommendations for you, so you can make an educated decision whether implants are right for you. Don’t hesitate any longer. You’ve spent enough years with a missing tooth in your smile or a wired partial and in discomfort. Now is the time to regain your smile and enjoy a resurgence of your confidence, enthusiasm and happiness!

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• Porcelain Veneers

  Why Should I Consider Porcelain Veneers? Patients with excessive tooth damage, especially damage that may impact how they feel when interacting with others, may want to consider porcelain veneer treatment. Specifically, porcelain veneers are ideal for correcting discoloration, cracks, chips and even gaps or crooked teeth. How Do Porcelain Veneers Work? Porcelain veneers, which are thin pieces of porcelain dental material, cover-up your tooth imperfections and mask any visible damage. Dr. Bidabadi will carefully evaluate your individual needs and the peculiarities of the tooth/teeth in question and discuss your overall dental goals before developing a treatment plan that works for you. She may recommend a full set of veneers for your top and bottom teeth or may recommend veneers to be targeted to one specific area. If porcelain veneers are determined to be the best treatment for your teeth, she will make a mold of your mouth and have custom porcelain veneers made just for you. Since veneers are custom made to each patient, this process may take several weeks. Each veneer will be carefully applied to the surface of your tooth. Your veneers will have the same look and feel as natural teeth and will greatly improve their appearance. What Are The Benefits Of Porcelain Veneers? Porcelain veneers provide a very natural looking, but improved appearance to your teeth. Additionally, porcelain veneers are very easily tolerated by your gum tissues. Veneers are resistant to many stains and can be made as white as the patient desires for optimal results. If a patient is not receiving a veneer for each tooth, it may be advisable to undergo professional teeth whitening prior to the application of veneers to guarantee the most natural looking results. Finally, veneers are quite durable and resist biting pressure very well. Amazing customer service and dental care. “I have been a patient for over 15 years and have always had excellent experiences. I have had a lot of dental work and Dr. Bidabadi pays close attention to providing a pain free experience that fits into my busy schedule.” Elizabeth S. Are There Any Risks Associated With Porcelain Veneers? Just like many restorative dental procedures, the application of porcelain veneers does require the removal of some healthy tooth structure. However, porcelain veneers are a much more conservative approach than other major repair options for damaged teeth. It’s also important to note that porcelain veneers are not permanent and may have to be replaced over time. How Long Will My Porcelain Veneers Last? With proper care, most porcelain veneers will last between 10-15 years, however, it varies between individuals.

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• Cosmetic Bonding

  Dental Bonding Material The dental bonding material is made of a composite resin, or plastic, that hardens and fuses to the tooth when the dentist shines a special light on it. Once in place, the bonding material is shaped to correct the specific defect, colored to match the patient’s natural tooth and polished until it is smooth. The Dental Bonding Process Applying bonding to a patient’s teeth requires a three-step process. Step 1 An etching solution is applied to the tooth or teeth to prepare them to receive the bonding material. This solution gently roughens the surface of the tooth for a stronger bond between the tooth and the plastic. Step 2 A thin layer of the bonding resin is placed on the surface of the tooth and is sealed in place using a special light. Several layers of resin may be added and hardened in turn. Each layer takes only a few minutes to harden. Step 3 The bonding material is sculpted to the desired shape and colored to match the shade of the natural teeth. Finally, the bonding material is polished until it is entirely smooth. The dental bonding procedure takes 1 to 2 hours, and its results may last for up to 10 years before any restoration is necessary.

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• No Wire Partials

  Why Should I Choose No Wire Partials? If you are missing several teeth, to the extent that a dental bridge is not sufficient, partial dentures may be the right treatment option for you. Partials are removable. No-wire partials are lightweight, made without metal and are virtually unnoticeable. No-wire partial dentures improve upon old designs in that they will not damage your existing teeth or healthy gums. How Are No-Wire Partial Dentures Different? Traditionally, partials use bent wires that look like paper clips that help the partials latch onto the adjacent teeth in order to hold in place. This can sometimes lead to discomfort, and patients often require the use of creams and powders to help their partial dentures stay in place. No-wire partial dentures are removable and are made of flexible material that is durable and hard to break. Recent advancement in dental technology uses nylon to replace the usual metal and pink acrylic that is used for dentures. When used for partial dentures, nylon resembles the pink color of the gums and can still be durable even if a thin portion is used for both the base and the clasps. These clasps curl comfortably to the necks of the teeth making them look invisible. These types of partial dentures are very stable and don’t use your natural teeth to latch on to. Unlike partial dentures with metal clasps, the structure and fit does not change over time. How Do I Take Care Of My Partial Dentures? Like any other dental device, partial dentures require care and maintenance. When wearing partial dentures, you are advised not to position them into the mouth by using your bite. Use your hands when doing so. The jaw can be really strong and the pressure of a bite could greatly affect the framework of a partial when it is not in its exact position. It could be bent or broken and could even injure your gums or tongue in the process. Do not tighten the partial’s clasps on your own. It is not advisable to do so without the appropriate knowledge and expertise about the procedure. If you feel the partial dentures are loosening, bring them to your dentist and let an expert do the job. You should not take your partials out of your mouth for more than a few weeks or a month. If you don’t wear your partial for too long, your remaining teeth may gradually shift to a different position. Partial dentures are placed and clasped on your remaining teeth precisely so that they resemble the natural contour of your teeth. Even the slightest disturbance in the alignment could cause complications. Dr. Bidabadi personalizes your partial dentures to help ensure a comfortable and precise fit. With regular checkups, repairs and adjustments, you’ll discover how partial dentures can enhance your appearance and improve the quality of your life.

  Link: No Wire Partials

• Bridges

  What Is A Bridge And When Are They Used? If a patient is only missing one or more teeth, it may be customary for SoftTouch Dentistry to recommend dental bridges to close the gap created by the missing teeth. Dental bridges consist of two crowns on both ends of the bridge called abutments that function as anchors to hold the bridge in place. In between the crowns are the artificial teeth which will complete the bridge. Bridges are important for maintaining overall dental health. If one tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift or change position potentially causing damage or decay. By installing a bridge, Dr. Bidabadi ensures a healthy, and aligned smile despite a missing tooth. What Materials Are Bridges Made Of? Bridges fill the gaps in your teeth by replacing the missing ones with either all-porcelain material, or the combination of traditional porcelain and metal materials or other advanced options. What Result Can I Expect From A Dental Bridge? Once your dental bridges are in place, they restore the appearance and function of your teeth and you can go about your day to day activities. You may not notice the bridge, and the shape of your face and your jaw will not change. Dental bridges can also improve the overall speech function and decrease the slurring sometimes caused by missing teeth. Are There Any Risks Associated With Dental Bridges? One should always fill in the place of missing tooth and Bridge is one way of addressing that. Without a dental bridge your jaw line or gums may suffer, speech may become slurred and other healthy teeth may shift or become damaged. Bridges are one of ways of maintaining overall dental health. For the best possible results, it is ideal to have your dental bridge made soon after you lose your teeth. If done properly, dental bridges may provide exactly the same look and feel of your natural tooth.

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• Dental Care for Children

  Teaching Healthy Habits Treating children starts with educating them by dentists. It’s important to teach them general dental health and techniques early so that they feel invested in their own dental care. Children may be young but they are definitely capable of understanding the importance of good dental practices. Treating Baby Teeth Baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear, often around six months old. Decay is most common in the upper front teeth due to bottle feeding. Although rare, decayed baby teeth may need to be removed prior to permanent teeth coming in. To avoid such treatment, it is important to clean your child’s teeth and gums regularly. Begin cleaning your baby’s gums by wiping them with a clean, moist washcloth. As soon as teeth appear, decay can occur so begin light brushing of baby teeth as soon as they appear. For children younger than 3 years old, clean teeth with a fluoride toothpaste in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. Do this twice a day or as directed by a dentist or physician. Supervise children’s brushing to ensure that they use the proper technique. For children 3 to 6 years old, you can increase the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. Continue to monitor your child’s teeth brushing, twice a day. As soon as your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily. The First Dental Visit As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. The ADA recommends that the first dental visit take place within six months after the first tooth appears, but no later than a child’s first birthday. At this first visit Dr. Bidabadi will examine your child’s mouth and to check growth and development, including: Clean your child’s teeth and provide a routine for daily care. Performing an inspection for injuries or other concerning oral conditions. Evaluate the potential for developing tooth decay. Discuss teething, pacifier use and thumb sucking. It’s important to note that infants and toddlers who do not receive an adequate amount of fluoride may be at an increased risk for tooth decay since fluoride helps make tooth enamel more resistant. Bottled water may not contain fluoride; therefore, children who regularly drink bottled water or unfluoridated tap water may be missing the benefits of fluoride.

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• Teeth Whitening

  Why Should I Consider Professional Teeth Whitening Services? Unlike drugstore options, professional teeth whitening services yield deeper, longer-lasting results. These high-quality results can also be obtained in just one office visit. If you have an important event coming up for a wedding or a big job interview, you may want to consider professional teeth whitening services. Of the many cosmetic procedures available, a teeth whitening visit is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to make you look healthier and more radiant. I love this place. “Superior dental services plus incredible front desk. There’s nothing Dr. Bidabadi can’t do– …Can’t recommend Soft Touch Dentistry enough.” Gillian K. What Methods Of Teeth Whitening Treatment Are Offered? Soft Touch Dentistry in Brighton and Newton, MA offers teeth whitening treatments that can be accomplished in one office visit. Soft Touch Dentistry also has a professional strength take-home whitening kit available for those who would prefer to whiten at home or are not seeking immediate results. Take home kits typically require 10-14 days of treatment to achieve optimal results. For patients who only need to whiten their teeth by just a couple of shades, there are the quick in-office procedures available. Are There Any Risks To Receiving Professional Teeth Whitening Services? Only a dental professional can offer the strongest whitening agents as those used by Soft Touch Dentistry. Receiving services in a dental office will also ensure that these highly effective whitening agents do not harm your gums or other tissues near the mouth. How Do I Care For My Teeth Following A Whitening Treatment? This is one of the most commonly asked questions by our patients. There are a number of ways to keep the effects of your teeth whitening treatment fresh and long lasting. The most important tip is to maintain general oral hygiene including frequent brushing. Brushing often, especially after meals will maintain a healthy glow to your newly whitened teeth. Another helpful tip is to avoid caffeine and dark drinks such as coffee or soda. If possible, use a straw for these types of beverages to minimize their contact with your teeth. It’s important to note that all foods and beverages which may stain your teeth should be avoided completely for the first 24 hours following treatment.

  Link: Teeth Whitening

• Tooth Colored Fillings

  What Conditions May Require A Tooth Filling? A tooth filling may be necessary if a patient’s tooth has become: Decayed Cracked Fractured A tooth filling will repair the tooth and prevent further damage or decay. Dental fillings are common options for repairing some tooth damage and should be considered when the existing tooth structure is stable and easy to work with. CALL SOFT TOUCH DENTISTRY TODAY! What Is A Tooth-Colored Filling? In years past, only silver-toned, metal amalgam dental fillings were available to fill teeth. While less expensive, overtime a metal tooth filling could give the tooth a grayish appearance, causing the tooth to appear damaged. Modern dentistry has evolved to develop tooth-colored dental fillings that are made from the composite resin of acrylic plastics. This type of tooth filling will not cause your tooth to discolor or gray. Tooth-colored fillings are designed to mimic the natural dentin found within your teeth, and therefore have a better bonding property to the tooth surface and offer better insulation during temperature changes. Dr. Bidabadi only offers tooth-colored dental fillings to her patients. What Will My Teeth Look Like After Receiving Dental Fillings? Just like it sounds, tooth-colored fillings are created to match the tone and color of your existing teeth. Therefore, with a tooth filling from Soft Touch Dentistry, you will see a solid colored tooth that looks as natural as possible. “My experiences as a patient have been consistently excellent.The staff is attentive and promotes the best practices of dental health. They seize every opportunity to teach those best practices. Doctor Bidabadi always reassures me about the necessity of each procedure. She is always available for emergency treatment.” – John S. Can I Replace My Metal Tooth Filling With A Tooth-Colored Filling? Many adult patients may already have metal dental fillings. If you’d like to improve the appearance of your teeth with a new tooth filling, or if you believe you may need your existing metal fillings replaced due to new decay developing under your existing dental fillings, discuss these goals with Dr. Bidabadi. She will help create the care plan that is most appropriate for your unique teeth and situation. Soft Touch Dentistry proudly provides Newton MA, Brighton MA and surrounding areas with advanced dental fillings. If you are in need of a tooth filling, call today for your consultation or complete a Contact Form here!

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• Preventive Care

  How Does Dental Preventive Care Work? New patients are always started up with a full set of x-rays referred to as FMX to set a baseline and point of examination. A preventative care not only cleans your teeth of calculus and any other buildups, it is an examination of potential decay, the health of your gums, oral cancer exams, your bite, and any other anomalies of your oral health. How Often Should This Be Done? It varies from one patient to another. Most patients that do not have gum issues have twice a year preventative care visits. This above the gum line cleaning is referred to as Prophylaxis care. In some patients, this may have to be done more than twice a year. The other type of care which is done below the gum line and is performed once every three months. This preventative care is called periodontal maintenance. Before the start of periodontal cleaning, a deep gum level cleaning is performed which is called periodontal scaling and root planing. All hygienists in Dr. Baidabadi’s practice schedule the follow-up visit at the end of each visit to make sure all of our patients keep up with their regular checkups.

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• Sleep Apnea Treatment

  What Is Sleep Apnea? In sleep apnea, a person’s breathing becomes blocked many times while sleeping. This breathing interruption forces the body to awaken the person to open the airway, although he or she may not even realize they were awake briefly. These interruptions are usually caused by soft tissue in the upper airway sagging down and blocking the airflow, and they can occur dozens of times each night. Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans, yet most don’t address the problem or even know they have it. What Are The Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea? These are the common symptoms of sleep apnea: Loud snoring Abrupt awakenings from sleep Awakening with shortness of breath Episodes of breathing cessation witnessed by another person Waking up with a headache in the morning Excessive daytime sleepiness Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat Difficulty staying asleep Attention problems Irritability What Causes Sleep Apnea? The more common form of sleep apnea (and the form we treat at Soft-Touch Dentistry) is known as obstructive sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax. These muscles support all of the surrounding tissues such as the tonsils and the walls of the throat. When the muscles relax, the airway narrows or closes. Your brain senses this inability to breath and briefly wakes you from sleep to reopen the airway. These lapses in sleep can be so brief you don’t even remember them. These actions can involve a snorting, choking, or gasping sound and can repeat the pattern up to 30 times per hour all night. Sleep apnea can have various causes: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids Cardiovascular problems Obesity Throat and tongue muscles that are abnormally relaxed Nasal congestion Smoking Family history What Is The Difference Between Snoring And Sleep Apnea? Snoring and sleep apnea aren’t the same thing, although most people with sleep apnea do snore. When you snore, resistance to the airflow creates the noise while you’re sleeping. In sleep apnea, it’s not simply resistance, but there is a pronounced blockage to the degree that your brain awakens your body to open the airway. What Negative Health Impacts Can Sleep Apnea Cause? Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious health concern. Sleep apnea is the most underdiagnosed medical condition in the U.S., affecting 4 percent of middle-aged men and 2 percent of middle-aged women. People with sleep apnea have a higher risk of stroke, heart disease (including hypertension), heart failure, and heart attack. Incidence of type 2 diabetes is higher. And, if all of that weren’t enough, OSA is linked to premature death. Beyond those life-threatening consequences, sleep apnea can simply make your life harder. You have trouble focusing at work. You’re tired most of the time. You’re irritable, likely to gain weight, suffer from headaches, and more likely to get in a car crash. How Do You Treat Sleep Apnea? At Soft-Touch Dentistry, we treat obstructive sleep apnea through the use of oral appliance therapy. This involves the patient wearing a mouth guard at night. You can equate it somewhat to a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer. Worn only during sleep, the oral appliance supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. At Soft-Touch Dentistry, Dr. Bidabadi has experience with a variety of these appliances — there are over 100 FDA-approved oral appliances — and can help you find the one that works best for you. We take precise measurements and impressions and send them to the appliance manufacturer to create your custom oral appliance. For more severe cases of sleep apnea, oral appliances may not be sufficient treatment and the patient may need a continuous positive airway pressure breathing system, CPAP. But, due to the necessary mask and tubes involved with CPAP, patients usually try oral appliances first, hoping to avoid CPAP’s limitations.

  Link: Sleep Apnea Treatment