When people think about going to the dentist, it is usually to have their teeth cleaned or fill a cavity. However, a dentist is actually capable of helping with other problems you may not have thought of.

Sleep Apnea

Do you suffer from breathing problems when you lay down at night to go to sleep? If so, you may have a form of sleep apnea. This is a problem you can actually talk to your dentist about, since they can help get you a sleep apnea appliance to help with your breathing at night.

There are two types of devices they may suggest after diagnosing your problem. One of them is a mouthpiece that restricts the movement of the tongue, keeping it in a forward position. The other device is known as a MAD, which stands for mandibular advancement device. It helps reposition your jaw, which makes it easier to breath at night.

You can seek a consultation with your dentist for advice on which sleep apnea appliance would be best for you, as well as get fitted for the device.

Bad Breath

If you are suffering from bad breath, this is not something that you have to visit your doctor about. It may be better to visit a dentist. The technical name for the problem is halitosis, and it is caused by an oral infection, dry mouth, or respiratory infection. They'll look at your mouth to find out what symptoms you have, come up with a diagnosis, and recommend a way to fight the bad breath. For example, an infection will be treated with an antibiotic.

Canker Sores

Your dentist also knows a lot about canker sores. If you frequently get these annoying little ulcers, a dentist can help get to the bottom of why they are occurring. For instance, they may recommend a certain type of toothpaste that won't irritate the inside of your mouth. You may discover your problem is as simple as having a sensitive mouth that forms cankers easily from sharp foods or braces.

These are just a few problems that your dentist can solve for you. When you are experiencing problems that involve your mouth or oral health, it is worth finding out if your dentist can help treat it. They work with this part of the body exclusively, so they will have the expertise you need to give you a solution that can work best for your problem.