Managing obstructive sleep apnea with your Michigan dentist restores healthy rest
By Dr. Richard Bernstein
The idea of healthy sleep has changed significantly in the last century. As recently as the early 1900s, people slept an average of nine hours per night. How long we sleep today varies widely. With about eight being the average, the CDC reports that as much as 30 percent of Americans, ranging in age from 20s to 60s, sleep only six hours a night, or even less. The reasons why we are so sleep deprived today vary as much as the hours we sleep.
Finding the cause of sleep deprivation is important to health
A key factor in our level of health is sleep. During this activity, the body goes through significant, rejuvenating processes. Over the years, research on sleep patterns has revealed that we complete several stages as we sleep. We begin with light non-REM, moving into deep non-REM. Within two hours of falling asleep, we should move into our first REM sleep, where we might stay for about 15 minutes. In REM sleep, we are unable to move our arms and legs. Some believe this is so we do not act out our dreams.As the night wears on, we move from REM sleep back into light and deep non-REM sleep. Eventually we resume REM sleep at some point. The necessity for REM sleep has been well-documented, but we often fail to overlook the importance of all stages of sleep as a whole process. During non-REM sleep, the heart rate is slowed, and body temperature and blood pressure are lowered. It is during these stages when the body is rejuvenating and restoring its strength, memory, and other facilities.
When we fail to get the sleep we need, we suffer greatly. Symptoms of sleep loss are immediately visible, and worsen the longer sleep is disrupted. They include:
- Impaired function, with slower reflexes.
- Higher instance of accidents.
- Lack of mental clarity. Foggy thinking. Difficulty remembering.
- Hyperactivity.
- Extreme daytime sleepiness.
- Microsleeps, when sleep occurs quickly, at inappropriate times, such as a stop light.
- Obesity.
- Depression or mood swings.
Dr. Bernstein has years of experience treating patients with obstructive sleep apnea, helping them comfortably get back to healthy sleep patterns with a simple oral appliance. If you or a loved one experience symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, contact us for a consultation.

Richard S. Bernstein D.D.S
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With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Bernstein is a renowned cosmetic dentist and is passionate about providing the best for his patients, making him a respected pillar of trust amongst his community. He possesses a Masters in Biochemistry - WSU School of Medicine, and a Doctorate in Dental Surgery - University of Detroit.He is presently a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and a Diplomate in the American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry (ABAD) to name a few.
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