If you’ve ever noticed that a parent or sibling snores just as loudly as you do, you might be wondering whether there’s a deeper family connection to your sleep troubles.
Genetics can play a significant part in your risk for developing sleep apnea, but other factors are involved as well. At Northwest Dental Centre, we’re here to help you find the right path forward with effective sleep apnea treatments for better sleep and improved health.
The Family Connection & Your Risk
How Genes Can Play a Role
Your family history can influence your likelihood of developing sleep apnea. Physical traits passed down through generations—such as the shape of your jaw, the size of your tongue, or the structure of your airway—can make you more susceptible to breathing interruptions during sleep.
Shared Lifestyle Factors
Beyond genetics, families often share similar habits and environments. Things like diet and exercise routines can be passed down through learned behaviour. These shared lifestyle factors can also contribute to the development of conditions that are linked to sleep apnea.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea
It can be difficult to know if your sleep is being interrupted, but there are some common signs that you or your partner might notice. Pay attention to:
- Loud & persistent snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Feeling tired despite a full night’s rest
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty staying focused during the day
Other Factors That Contribute to Sleep Apnea
Age & Body Composition
Your risk for developing sleep apnea may increase after the age of 40. This is because, as you get older, the muscle tone in your throat may decrease, making the airway more prone to narrowing while you sleep. Many adults are considered to be at high risk based on symptoms and body composition.
Factors like excess body weight and a larger neck circumference can also place additional pressure on your airway. This extra tissue can physically press on the air passage when you lie down, making it more likely to collapse during sleep.
Lifestyle Choices
Certain daily habits can affect your breathing at night. For example, consuming alcohol before bed can relax the muscles in your throat, which may worsen snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Some medications can have a similar effect on your airway.
Health Concerns Linked to Untreated Sleep Apnea
When your body is deprived of consistent, restful sleep, this can impact more than just your energy levels. Each time your breathing stops, your brain briefly wakes you up to restart it. This cycle can happen hundreds of times a night, preventing you from getting the deep, restorative sleep your body needs.
Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a range of health concerns because of the repeated stress it puts on your system night after night.
- Increased blood pressure
- Higher risk for heart problems
- Impact on daily focus & mood
Find Your Solution with a Dentist in NW Calgary
A Complete & Convenient Evaluation
Getting answers about your sleep shouldn’t be complicated. As your dentist in NW Calgary, we can provide a thorough assessment of your situation. This allows for a smooth process from evaluation to creating a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific needs.
Custom Oral Appliance Therapy
For many people, a custom oral appliance is a comfortable and effective solution for sleep apnea. These devices offer a straightforward way to improve your sleep without a CPAP machine. Think of it like a sports mouthguard designed for sleep, made from smooth materials and custom-molded to your teeth for a secure fit.
A custom-fit device works by gently shifting your jaw forward. This small adjustment helps keep your airway open all night, allowing you to breathe continuously and quietly.
If you suspect that your family history or other factors are affecting your sleep, it’s time to explore your options. Our team at Northwest Dental Centre is ready to provide a complete evaluation and help you find a comfortable solution for a better night’s rest. Contact our office to schedule your consultation.
