Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Does your bed partner complain about your snoring? Are you unusually sleepy during the day and don't know why? These are two of the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep related breathing disorder that can cause you to stop breathing dozens or even hundreds of times each night.


Only a physician can diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. A dentist do not diagnose OSA. However, a dentist may see patients who they suspect may be at risk and will refer them to their family physicians for further diagnostic followup.

The most effective treatment for mild or moderate sleep apnea, says The Canadian Lung Association, is continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP). With CPAP you wear a special mask attached to a CPAP machine. A steady stream of air is blown through the mask, into your nose and down your throat. The pressure helps keep your airways open so you can breathe properly all night. Other treatments for mild sleep apnea include lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives and sleeping on your side, not your back.   Your doctor may also recommend that you use a dental (or an oral appliance) that fits over your teeth and prevents your tongue and jaw from blocking your airway. In comparison to CPAP devices, these are sometimes regarded as a convenient, silent and more bed partner-friendly choice says Dr. Alan Lowe, Professor and Chair of the Divison of Orthodontics, University of Bristish Columbia's Faculty of Dentistry.   A cautionary note: Some patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea may be curious about ordering prefabricated devices over the internet. "Think twice!". "You may end up with jaw pain or other problems. That could be a significant and serious."

Drugs and Your Dentist

You know its important to update your doctor on your health and medication status, but what about your dentist? Good communication with your dentist about your overall health is vital, says Dr. Lynn Tomkins, a clinical instructor in the Department of Oral Diagnosis and Medicine at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry and a Past President of the ODA. "What happens in your mouth affects your body, and what happens in your body affects your mouth."

If you are on blood thinner mediations, it is important that your dentist be made aware of the type and dosage you are taking. These medications act to reduce the body's natural clotting mechanisms. Since it is not uncommon for minor amounts of bleeding to occur during even simple dental procedures such as tooth cleaning and scaling, it is very important to let your dentist know at least several days PRIOR to any treatment that you are taking blood thinner medications. Your dentist may wish to consult with your family doctor about the advisability of discontinuing this particular medication for a day or so prior to your dental appointment.

Fighting the "Ouch" Factor - Tooth Sensitivity

Here's how to help prevent tooth sensitivity:

•  Keep your teeth clean: plaque forms bacteria that irritates your gums and may make them recede.
• Use desensitizing toothpaste and fluoridated dental products.
• Use a soft toothbrush that won't scratch tooth enamel or wear away gums tissue and brush gently using a circular motion.
• Use warm water when brushing your teeth to soften your toothbrush's bristles.
• Avoid tobacco in any form. In addition to its carcinogenic effects, smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco may cause gums to recede.
• Reduce your intake of acidic foods and sugary snacks and drinks.

Referral Program

iPad mini lucky draw

For any new patient referral, both you and your referral will receive a raffle ticket ( on the appointment day) for the draw of a iPad mini ( value at $350)

Contest date : May 1st  - August 30th, 2013
Draw Date : August 30th, 2013

Winner will be announced on ScarboroughSmiles.com and will be contacted by the office via phone / email

GOOD LUCK to everyone! 

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