What is sleep apnea?
When people are suffering from sleep apnea, they stop breathing while they sleep for at least a period of 10 seconds or more.
These interruptions, called apneas, can last for a few seconds or even minutes, often multiple times throughout the night. Think of it like a pause button being pressed on your breathing – these pauses can happen hundreds of times per night, preventing you from getting the deep, restorative sleep your body needs.
You may not get enough restful sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, and other health problems.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, and occurs when the throat muscles relax so much that they obstruct (or block) the flow of air coming in and out of the nose and mouth.
SLEEP APNEA: WHAT IS IT, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT OPTIONS
There are two main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by a blockage of the airway when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep.
- Central Sleep Apnea: Occurs when the brain doesn’t send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing, though this type is less common.
Sleep apnea should not be taken lightly. There are serious side effects and consequences of not seeking treatment right away.
As a matter of fact, sleep apnea sufferers are 3 times more likely to be involved in a vehicle accident than those without the sleep disorder. They also are more susceptible to falling asleep unexpectedly throughout the day, such as while they are driving.
Furthermore, if left untreated, sleep apnea increases risks of:
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular disease (heart disease)
- Diabetes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) or other heart problems
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Other serious health complications
- Decreased immune function
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Accidents due to fatigue
Sleep apnea symptoms and signs
- Daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory issues
- Irritability or personality/mood changes
- Forgetfulness
- Loud snoring that may wake you or your partner
- Falling asleep at inappropriate times throughout the day
- Sudden waking, choking, gasping for air while you sleep
- Restless sleep
- Poor memory or concentration
- Frequent headaches mainly in the morning
- Dry mouth
- Weight gain
- Depression
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule your appointment and talk to Dr. Silverman as soon as possible.
4 easy steps to diagnose & treat sleep apnea
- Complete a sleep study.We cannot provide sleep apnea treatment until we have a sleep study diagnosis. A sleep study can be done in the comfort of your home with a user-friendly, FDA-approved sleep study device. The device tests for bruxism and sleep apnea in one night.
- Schedule a sleep apnea appointment at our dental office in Alpharetta.
- A board certified sleep physician will read and analyze your sleep study results in order to make an official diagnosis. If sleep apnea is diagnosed, the test may be sent to a sleep physician.
- Start sleep apnea treatment as prescribed by a sleep physician.
Treatment options to fix sleep apnea
After a sleep study is performed, it will be determined whether or not you suffer from sleep apnea. If so, there are a few sleep apnea treatments available.
- CPAP Therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): The most common treatment is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)apparatus for moderate to severe sleep apnea. A CPAP machine delivers a continuous flow of air through a mask to keep your airways open while you sleep. Many sleep disorder sufferers find relief with using the CPAP while they sleep.
- Oral Appliances: For those mild to moderate sleep apnea sufferers who dislike the CPAP machine, there are other dental appliances that can help, such as a custom mouthguardor an oral sleep appliance. The mouthguard holds your jaw in a slightly forward position in order to keep your airway open while you sleep. Many of our patients prefer this option for its simplicity and portability.
- Surgery: In rare cases surgery may be recommended, but is not necessarily needed to find relief from the sleep disorder. Surgery can remove tissue from the throat or correct physical abnormalities that contribute to airway blockages.
- Lifestyle Changes: Non-invasive treatments can include changing your sleep position; sleeping on your side instead of your back can potentially help your situation; using pillows to prop yourself up in a different position; avoiding sleeping pills or alcohol; quitting smoking; and losing weight.
Benefits of treating sleep apnea
Don’t let sleep apnea keep you from enjoying life to its fullest. Our friendly, gentle dentist is here to help you discover the benefits of proper treatment:
- Wake up feeling refreshed and energized
- Improve your concentration and productivity
- Enhance your overall health and well-being
- Reduce your risk of sleep apnea-related health complications
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
Common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, choking or gasping for air during sleep, frequent awakenings, dry mouth, sore throat, headaches, and daytime fatigue. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with our dentist.
Yes, for many patients, there are alternative treatments such as oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or even surgery. We’ll work with you to find the best option based on the severity of your sleep apnea.
Absolutely! Oral appliances are highly effective for many people, especially those with mild to moderate sleep apnea. They help keep your airways open by gently repositioning the jaw and tongue. A customized appliance will be more comfortable and effective than over-the-counter options.
If you’ve tried a CPAP machine and find it uncomfortable or ineffective, don’t give up! Many patients switch to an oral appliance for a more comfortable solution. We’re here to help you find the right treatment that fits your needs.
The first step is to schedule a consultation with us. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study, and discuss the best treatment options for your individual needs.
Most insurance plans cover sleep apnea treatment. Our office staff will work directly with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs upfront.
Most patients adjust to their treatment within a few weeks. We provide ongoing support and adjustments to ensure your comfort and treatment success.
Call us today and get relief from sleep apnea today
If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea disorder or if you’re ready to choose a dentist for sleep apnea treatment, we encourage you to call Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today for an appointment with our sleep apnea dentists.
Dr. Silverman is experienced with detecting, diagnosing, and treating sleep apnea disorders. We can also speak with you regarding sleep apnea causes for your particular situation.
So get the nighttime relief you deserve and sleep better today! Schedule your complimentary consultation and see why our patients love our dental office in Alpharetta.
MORE FROM ADVANCED COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY: