Sleep Apnea - Excellence In Dentistry

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Many Americans suffer from sleep apnea and more specifically a type of sleep apnea called OSA. OSA or obstructive sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that occurs during sleep due to closure of the airway. Sufferers of OSA have interruptions in sleep because as the air passage is blocked and breathing stops the brain detects the lack of oxygen and sends a momentary arousal to draw breath. Although these occurrences may happen hundreds of times per night, the patients may not even be aware.

A Normal Airway Versus OSA

For a person with normal breathing, the muscles that control the tongue and soft palate hold the airway open during sleep. With OSA, the muscles that hold the airway open relax too much, resulting in the collapse of the airway and obstruction of breathing.

Snoring a Symptom of Sleep Apnea

Snoring can be one of the first indicators that a person has sleep apnea. In fact, it is often a loved one who hears the snoring and lets their partner know that they may be suffering from a more serious issue. Snoring does not necessarily mean that a person has sleep apnea, but loud snoring can be a strong indication that they should get checked out.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Loud snoring
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Depression
Reduced resistance to infection
Poor memory
Mood problems
Headaches in the early morning

Sleep apnea can affect your quality of life and that of your sleep partner. If you have been witnessed grasping for air at night and are excessively sleepy during the day, you should contact us to determine if you are a sleep apnea sufferer.

SomnoMed Sleep Apnea Treatment

If you suffer from OSA or snore, the SomnoMed device may help. This is a custom-made oral appliance that can significantly reduce your sleep apnea and gives you and your partner better sleep. We will diagnose your severity of sleep apnea and determine if the device will work for you. Then, if applicable, we will administer the SomnoMed device that allows for your airway to stay open during the sleep, thus improving your sleep and quality of life.

A CPAP Alternative

The SomnoMed is also a great alternative to the CPAP machine. Many patients cannot tolerate the machine due to mask discomfort, machine noise, dry mouth or nasal congestion, and feelings of claustrophobia. Ask us about the SomnoMed device to learn more about it.