Sleep Apnea Treatment

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing or incomplete breathing during sleep. It can affect both adults and children. Symptoms include daytime sleepiness, fatigue, impaired alertness, and vision problems. In some cases it can also lead to congestive heart failure, stroke, and carotid artery atherosclerosis.

In our office, we are trained to perform examinations to determine if a patient suffers from sleep apnea. We can then educate the patient about this condition, explain the different treatment options, and also work closely with your pulmonologist or sleep specialist physicians.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. For obstructive sleep apnea, the most common method involves the use of a CPAP (Constant Positive Airway Pressure) machine and also OAT (Oral Appliance Therapy) which can be performed in our dental office.

Is Sleep Apnea Treatment Right For Me?

Assessing whether sleep apnea treatment is the right course for you is a critical step towards reclaiming peaceful and restorative nights. It's important to recognize that sleep apnea doesn't just disrupt your sleep, but can also have far-reaching impacts on your overall health, including cardiovascular issues and diminished daily functioning due to fatigue.

In the context of dental devices, they might be a suitable option for individuals with mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or those who cannot tolerate other forms of treatment like PAP therapy. However, it's worth noting that the effectiveness of these devices can be quite variable and might not be the ideal solution for everyone.

Your Sleep Apnea Treatment Procedure

It is always recommended to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan that suits your individual needs and preferences, ensuring that you embark on a path that not only alleviates your symptoms but also aligns with your comfort and lifestyle. Let's work together to find the approach that brings tranquility back to your nights and vitality to your days.

Consultation: Our dentist will discuss your symptoms and medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for a dental sleep apnea device.

Examination: A detailed examination of your mouth, jaw, and airways will be carried out. This can sometimes involve taking X-rays or impressions of your teeth.

Device Fabrication: Based on the examination, a custom dental device will be designed. These devices often aim to either reposition your lower jaw or restrain your tongue to prevent it from obstructing your airway while you sleep.

Fitting: Once the device is ready, you will have a fitting session where the dentist will adjust the device to ensure it is both effective and as comfortable as possible.

After Your Procedure

Regular follow-up appointments at our practice will be scheduled to closely monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your sleep apnea device, a key step in ensuring the successful management of your condition. This collaborative approach often involves a seamless partnership between your dentist and sleep specialist, working hand-in-hand to assess the effectiveness of your treatment and make any essential adjustments.

During the adaptation period, which is characterized by a phase of acclimatization to the device, open communication with your dentist is encouraged to address any discomfort or issues that you may encounter, facilitating necessary modifications for an improved experience. Moreover, to maintain its effectiveness and longevity, the device requires regular cleaning and maintenance, akin to any other dental appliance, solidifying it as a pivotal component in your journey to better sleep and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions - Sleep Apnea Treatment

What are the main types of sleep apnea?

There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea. OSA is the most common form, characterized by physical blockage of the upper airway. CSA occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is a combination of both OSA and CSA.

Can sleep apnea be cured?

For some individuals, lifestyle changes such as losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, or changing sleep positions may significantly improve or even resolve sleep apnea symptoms. In other cases, treatments like CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy, or surgery can effectively manage the condition. The approach depends on the severity and type of sleep apnea. A cure is more challenging but managing symptoms and minimizing risks is highly achievable.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Sleep apnea is diagnosed through a sleep study, or polysomnography, which can be conducted in a sleep center or at home using a portable monitoring device. This study tracks various body functions during sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and breathing patterns. Based on the results, a healthcare provider can determine if sleep apnea is present and its severity.

Are there specific risk factors for developing sleep apnea?

Yes, several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea, including obesity, a narrow airway, male gender, older age, family history of sleep apnea, use of alcohol or sedatives, smoking, and nasal congestion. However, sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, even those without these risk factors.

Can children suffer from sleep apnea?

Yes, children can suffer from sleep apnea. In children, the most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea is enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Symptoms may include snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, daytime sleepiness, and behavioral issues. It's important for children showing symptoms of sleep apnea to be evaluated by a healthcare provider, as treatment can help prevent complications related to growth, behavior, and learning.

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Yes, Our Las Vegas Dentist can Treat Sleep Apnea.