Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes people to repeatedly stop breathing while asleep. Individuals with sleep apnea may gasp for air while sleeping, snore loudly, have trouble staying asleep, and suffer side effects of exhaustion.

The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea. This happens when the muscles of the throat and mouth relax and make a person’s airway more narrow.

What causes snoring?

Some people may snore occasionally, due to alcohol consumption, allergies, or a cold. Consistent, regular snoring is different: it is a result of a narrowing of the airway caused by relaxation of the muscles in the throat, tongue, and roof of the mouth. As air is forced through this narrow airway, the tissues vibrate and produce loud snoring.

How can sleep apnea and snoring impact my health?

Sleep apnea and snoring are more than an annoyance for patients (and the people who sleep near them). These conditions can cause interference with daily living and serious health threats, including:

Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
Impaired concentration
Mood imbalances
Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure
Learning problems and/or aggression in children

The Mallampati Score

The Mallampati score is a simple test that can be a good predictor of obstructive sleep apnea. In anesthesia, the Mallampati score (or Mallampati classification) is used to predict the ease of intubation. It can also be used to predict whether a patient might have obstructive sleep apnea. I use the image in Figure 1, below, to show patients what I am seeing when I look at the back of their throats. The higher their score, the more likely they will have sleep apnea, although it is not 100% predictive..

"Could not ask for a more caring, competent and knowledgeable team. Dr. Yates has changed my life with his expertise. When I sit in his chair I have complete confidence in his skills and those of his staff."

Mary P

"I have been very fortunate to have been a patient of Dr. Edward Yates since 2004. He has taken exceptional care of me and my family, particularly providing my children with the most amazing smiles! His pain management is amazing, I have never experienced any discomfort during the root canals and crowns that he has performed for me. His technology is outstanding, crowns are completed in one visit. Dr. Yates and his staff are outstanding!"

Cathy W

"Best cleaning I have ever had was by Johanna. Very thorough. Would definitely recommend. I'm moving an hour away but will only use this office for my dental work from now on. Very clean and friendly."

Elisa M