blog

Sleep Apnea: Risks and Treatment Options

January 4th, 2011

Sleep disorders are fairly common, with around 50 to 70 million Americans being affected by some type chronic sleep disorder, and some of these progressing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which can cause loss of sleep among many other health problems.

Those under the age of 4 (large tonsils) and those between the ages of 55 to 59 are the most susceptible to sleep apnea. Snoring is one of the most easily identified symptoms, and as it worsens it can lead to full airway blockage while you sleep, which can severely disrupt your sleep patterns.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as sleep apnea causes an ongoing state of fatigue.

There are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, including:

Surgery to the jaws or airway tissue to open the airway. This is typically only used in the most severe cases.
Continuous airway pressure therapy which involves a mask and machine (CPAP machine) to keep your throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping
Oral appliance therapy, a less intrusive method involving a customized oral device that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep.

If you suspect that you may suffer from a sleep disorder or sleep apnea, give Dr. Sean M. Rooney Orthodontics a call and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist.

-- Dr. Rooney and Team

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

December 28th, 2010

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? Dr. Rooney’s office believes the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at the office of Dr. Sean M. Rooney

Welcome to Our Blog!

September 24th, 2010

Thank you for taking the time to visit the blog of Dr. Sean M. Rooney. Please check back often for weekly updates on fun and exciting events happening at our office, important and interesting information about orthodontics and the dental industry, and the latest news about our practice.

Feel free to leave a comment or question for our doctor and staff – we hope this will be a valuable resource for our patients, their families, and friends!

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