When the jaw opens and the tongue falls into the back of the throat, the airway narrows forcing air through the small opening. This creates vibrations in the throat known as snoring. Snoring can be a "red flag" for a serious and sometimes fatal condition called obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea
18-24% of the general population and 40-60% of individuals over age 60
snore. Close to 100% of snorers have apnea (reduced air) tendencies
with snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the air-way
completely collapses blocking airflow into the lungs. The harder one
tries to breath, the tighter the airway seals. This airway obstruction
persists until the brain partially awakens the person. Unconsciously,
he/she will close the jaw returning the tongue and the throat to a normal
position.
The sleep apnea cycle-falling asleep, jaw relaxing, airway collapsing,
unconsciously awakening with a gasp, falling back asleep-can repeat itself
50 or more times per hour during the night. With a blocked air
passage, one does not receive enough oxygen. Both the awakenings and
oxygen deprivation can then trigger other serious health problems.
The HA® is a new therapy available to those who snore or have sleep apnea. The appliance is similar to an athletic mouth guard that is worn while sleeping. Developed with advanced technology over the past 22 years of clinical trials, the HA® reduces sleep apnea associated health risks without the need for surgery, medications, or other more cumbersome therapy.
Website for more information: http://www.dentalsleepmed.org
SLEEP APNEA CAN CAUSE:
*Chronic Sleepiness *Strokes *Heart Attacks *Memory Problems
*Morning Headaches *Depression *High Blood Pressure
Normal jaw position, airway open.
Relaxed jaw position causes tongue and throat tissue to collapse and narrows
the airway.
HA® maintains forward jaw position and keeps the
AIRWAY OPEN!!!