Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea treatment options vary widely, depending on the severity and cause of your sleep apnea disorder.

If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you are probably ready to find an effective treatment for your sleep apnea.

There are a variety of options available for treating sleep apnea – ranging from Continual Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines to oral appliances and even surgery.

It’s important to note there are two types of sleep apnea – obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. The approach to managing apnea depends on which type of sleep apnea you have.

The most prevalent symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:

• Fatigue during the day
• Heavy snoring
• Choking
• Gasping for air
• Restlessness
• Cessation of breathing while asleep
• Morning headaches
• Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat

Not only are the symptoms of sleep apnea annoying, but they affect the quality of sleep, which can bleed into overall lower quality of life. If you aren’t sleeping well, it’s incredibly difficult to function well and feel cheerful when you’re awake.

You have a variety of treatment options for your obstructive sleep apnea.

The most common treatment for OSA, CPAP devices monitor breathing patterns and move the tongue to maintain an open airway while sleeping. CPAP machines can be cumbersome, difficult to adjust, and uncomfortable. Many patients cease using their CPAP devices without consulting their medical team because the devices are so uncomfortable and difficult to use.

A more invasive approach to treating sleep apnea, there are several surgical options available. Surgeries widen airways and remove obstructions to allow for uninterrupted breathing during sleep. Some procedures treat sleep apnea by reducing tissue obstructing the throat or removing tissue that interferes with breathing during sleep.

Mandibular repositioning devices (MRD) are an excellent solution for treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. MRDs are an effective alternative to CPAP machines for many patients with sleep apnea.

Repositioning devices are designed to keep the throat open by bringing the jaw forward and holding the tongue in position during sleep.

Patients generally find that oral devices are far more comfortable and far easier to wear and care for than a CPAP.

Untreated, sleep apnea can be dangerous – or even life-threatening.

Dentists can identify common problems with the oral cavity – and provide relief from your sleep apnea symptoms. Wearing one of our custom oral appliances can dramatically reduce your sleep apnea/ hypopnea episodes – without a CPAP. Most patients find our dental appliances to be more comfortable than other methods of treating sleep apnea.

If you’re interested in finding a treatment for sleep apnea in the Mandeville area, contact our team. Dr. Eversgerd is passionate about helping patients find a solution for their sleep apnea. She’s trained to help fit patients with the oral appliance (CPAP alternative) that’s right for them. To schedule a sleep apnea consultation appointment today, please contact us and call Allure Dental at: (985) 205-8190.