Airway Screenings
You may not think of the dentist when you think of an airway screening, but since many people see their dentist more often than their physician, it makes sense that a dentist is more likely to catch the symptoms of snoring or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These conditions fall under the blanket term of airway-centered disorders and affect millions of people nationwide.
Symptoms of an airway-centered disorder can present themselves in many ways including waking up tired, waking up with a headache or a sore throat, teeth grinding, obesity, daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, dementia, and depression to name a few!
During your routine dental exam, Dr. Gallegos will ask you some questions and look at your teeth, cheeks, lips, tongue, and throat to look for signs of snoring and OSA.
If an issue is detected, he may refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation.