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Sleep Apnea Causes Malibu, CA

Sleep Apnea Causes

An estimated one in five adults have obstructive sleep apnea, making it one of the most common breathing disorders. While it may be common, it poses a serious risk to health. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep, interrupting oxygen to the brain and other organs in the body. At Southern California TMJ and Sleep Center, we understand sleep apnea causes and offer effective sleep apnea treatment for our patients at our clinic in San Diego, CA.

The most common cause of sleep apnea is obesity. It is estimated that 70% of people with sleep apnea are overweight – the excess fat around the chin and throat can put pressure on the airway when sleeping. However, obesity is not the only factor that can obstruct the airway. Some of the other contributing factors to sleep apnea include:

  • Gender – men are over twice as likely to develop sleep apnea than women
  • Age – sleep apnea is more common in older individuals
  • Genetics – family history and physical throat traits can contribute to the condition
  • Smoking
  • Use of alcohol and sedatives
  • Jaw or bite alignment

Many people with sleep apnea may have multiple factors that cause their condition. Even if they lose weight, they may still suffer from sleep apnea if other issues are not addressed.

Repositioning the Lower Jaw

Jaw and bite alignment have a significant impact on how well you breathe when you are sleeping. When the lower jaw is recessed, it can press on the tissues around the throat and airway. There are ways to reposition the lower jaw to open the airway and improve bite alignment. This can relieve sleep apnea symptoms and also correct other problems like TMJ and smile/chin appearance.

Bob Perkins, DDS specializes in correcting structural issues within the jaw that can cause health problems like sleep apnea and TMD syndrome. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea and want to explore non-invasive solutions to improve your health and well-being, come see us at Southern California TMJ and Sleep Center. Contact our office in San Diego, CA, to schedule a sleep apnea consultation.