If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, it’s not uncommon for dentists trained to treat and manage this condition to recommend a sleep test. These tests are designed to monitor your current sleep patterns and confirm these chronic conditions, which can turn deadly when not promptly addressed. If you’ve never completed a test like this before, it’s important that you know how to prepare in advance. To learn what to expect and how to ensure the most comfortable experience possible, keep reading.
What You Can Expect
At your consultation, the dentist will help you set up a specific time and day for the sleep test. The test will most likely occur at a separate facility that has a dedicated room for patients to sleep in. All in all, you should expect the diagnostic medical tests to take about 12 hours to complete. During this time, doctors will evaluate your oxygen levels and other factors as you sleep.
Keep in mind that this is considered to be a noninvasive process. There is no surgery involved or any other intrusive procedures required to complete a sleep test. However, it will help if you prepare in advance.
Preparing for Your Sleep Test
In some cases, a dentist may ask that you take notes of the quality of your sleep ahead of your sleep test. Make sure to bring these notes to the office that the sleep test is occurring so they can review it ahead of your appointment.
If you are currently taking any medications, always let the dentist know ahead of time. This is particularly important if you have started taking new medications since becoming a new patient as the office may not be aware of them.
Start creating an overnight bag to take to your sleep test. You’ll want to wear loose-fitting clothing, such as pajamas, to ensure you can feel as comfortable as possible. Assuming you are staying overnight, a change of clothes and bag of toiletries will also be important to bring. Feel free to bring your preferred blanket and pillow so that you can simulate your nighttime routine.
Steps to Take The Day Before
Immediately the day before, you’ll want to make sure that you avoid consuming any caffeinated beverages after 2 p.m. as this can interfere with your test results. Avoid drinking alcohol as well as it can not only affect your sleep, but exacerbate symptoms related to sleep apnea. Avoid napping during the day as this could also make getting to sleep more difficult. Eat dinner at a normal time of day as well.
Preparation is key for sleep tests, so taking the necessary steps to ensure a smooth process is crucial. If you fear that you may have sleep apnea but don’t know what to do, feel free to get in touch with a dentist today to start managing and treating your symptoms once and for all!
About the Author
Dr. Marc Thomas has years of experience in helping patients confirm the presence of sleep apnea and designing custom-made oral appliances that work to alleviate their most common symptoms. Whether you’re learning of your condition for the first time or tired of relying on a CPAP to get a good night’s rest, him and his team are here to help. To schedule an appointment, you can contact him through his website.