Get The Rest You Need With Sleep Apnea Treatment
Contact Haggerty Dental About Sleep Apnea Treatment Today!
Improve cardiovascular health
Curtail daytime sleepiness
Reduce the risk of hypertension and diabetes
Enhance cognitive function
Wake up refreshed and rejuvenated!
What is sleep apnea?
Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea
Many people live with sleep apnea for years without realizing their symptoms may be related to interrupted breathing during sleep. While loud snoring is one of the most recognized signs, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and not everyone with sleep apnea snores loudly.
Common symptoms include:
- Loud or chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Pauses in breathing witnessed by a partner
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Irritability or mood changes
- Frequent nighttime awakenings
If you have been diagnosed by a physician or sleep specialist and are exploring sleep apnea treatment in Plymouth, MI, our team can discuss whether a dental treatment approach using a custom oral appliance may be appropriate for your needs.
Who is at risk for sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can affect adults of all ages and backgrounds. Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition, including:
- Excess body weight
- A naturally narrow airway
- Large tonsils or enlarged tissues
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Aging
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption before bedtime
- Certain medical conditions affecting the airway or breathing
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean you have sleep apnea. A proper medical diagnosis is the first step toward determining whether non-CPAP sleep apnea treatment or another treatment approach may be appropriate.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Our dentists play a crucial role in treating sleep apnea through oral appliances. These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth and are designed to keep your airway open during sleep. By repositioning the jaw or tongue, these appliances help prevent the collapse of soft tissues in the throat, reducing the likelihood of breathing interruptions.
Understanding the different types of sleep apnea
Not all sleep apnea is the same. Understanding the type you have helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form and occurs when the muscles and soft tissues at the back of the throat relax during sleep, temporarily blocking the airway. Many patients diagnosed with OSA may benefit from oral appliance therapy in Plymouth, MI, when recommended as part of their treatment plan.
Central sleep apnea
Central sleep apnea develops when the brain does not consistently send the proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. This condition is managed differently and often requires medical evaluation.
Complex sleep apnea syndrome
Some individuals experience a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea. Treatment recommendations depend on the individual's diagnosis and should always begin with a physician or sleep specialist.
Oral appliance therapy vs. CPAP therapy
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy remains a common treatment for many individuals with sleep apnea. However, some patients may find it difficult to tolerate or wear consistently.
A custom sleep apnea appliance offers another option for certain patients with OSA. The appliance is worn while sleeping and gently repositions the lower jaw to help maintain a more open airway.
Compared with CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy may offer benefits such as:
- A smaller, portable design
- No mask or air hose
- Quiet operation
- Easier travel
- Simple daily maintenance
Treatment recommendations vary based on the severity of sleep apnea and your physician's diagnosis. Our team can explain whether sleep apnea dental treatment with an oral appliance may complement your overall care plan.
What are the benefits of treatment?
Improved sleep quality is perhaps the most immediate and noticeable benefit. By addressing sleep apnea, individuals often experience fewer disruptions during the night, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep. This can result in increased daytime alertness and improved cognitive function.
Treating sleep apnea can significantly reduce the risk of developing severe health conditions associated with the disorder, such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. By ensuring proper oxygenation throughout the night, treatment can also contribute to better cardiovascular health.
The sleep apnea diagnosis process
Dentists do not diagnose sleep apnea. A diagnosis is typically made by a physician or sleep medicine specialist using a sleep study performed at home or in a sleep laboratory.
The evaluation measures factors such as:
- Breathing interruptions
- Oxygen levels
- Heart rate
- Sleep patterns
- Airflow throughout the night
Once a diagnosis has been established, your physician may recommend several treatment options. If a dental appliance is appropriate, our sleep apnea dentist in Plymouth, MI, can fabricate an appliance designed specifically for your mouth and coordinate your care as needed.
Which type of doctor is best for sleep apnea?
Is sleep apnea expensive to treat?
The cost of treating sleep apnea can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. At Haggerty Dental, we work with patients to explore treatment options that fit their needs and budget, offering financing options and insurance assistance when available.
Specific treatment prices are personalized and will only be discussed during your consultation. Don't let sleep apnea disrupt your life. Contact us today and take the first step towards a restful night's sleep.