The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety surveyed drivers in the US and an astounding two out of every five drivers (41%) admitted falling asleep behind the wheel.  Ten percent of drivers said they had done so during the past year.  These are frightening statistics when crash data shows that one in six fatal crashes involve drowsy driving.

There are many causes for feeling sleepy when driving but one reason can be an undiagnosed sleep disorder.  Obstructive sleep apnea affects millions of people and the majority who suffer from the disease do not realize they have it.  Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues of the throat and mouth collapse during sleep and block the sleepers airway.  This can occur numerous times during the night leaving the sleeper exhausted in the morning with no recollection of the apnea episodes.

You may have sleep apnea if you:

• Are overweight
• Snore loudly
• Are middle aged or older
• Wake with headaches or a sore throat
• Feel tired during the day
• Easily fall asleep during the day

Obstructive sleep apnea can only be diagnosed by a qualified sleep physician.  In the Columbus, Ohio area please contact StoneRidge Dental Care for a referral to a local sleep physician.  Once diagnosed, sleep apnea is commonly treated using CPAP therapy.  Many patients find sleeping with the CPAP masks and tubing difficult or impossible.

An alternative treatment preferred by many of our patients is an oral appliance for obstructive sleep apnea.  This custom fitted device works with your body to keep your airway open allowing for a full, restful night’s sleep.

Please call Dr. Mark Levy  today at 614-476-6696 to arrange a consultation to see if you are a candidate for oral appliance therapy.  You deserve a good night’s sleep.