Combat Sleep Apnea with Simple and Non-invasive Treatment
Have you been told you snore at night? Do you always wake up feeling groggy? No matter how you twist and turn, you can’t seem to get enough sleep? The cause of your weariness and sleeplessness could be sleep apnea. Unfortunately, if this sleep-disordered breathing condition isn’t remedied, it may cause numerous health complications, including hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.
While sleep apnea is a severe condition, the treatment is simple. Piney Creek Family Dentistry overcomes sleep apnea by using a customized dental splint. While a sleeping mouthpiece doesn’t cure sleep apnea, it manages the symptoms for a healthy, everyday life.
Do you snore excessively? Do you suffer from daytime fatigue? Do you awake during the night with shortness of breath? You may suffer from the life-threatening sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. About 1 in every 15 Americans suffer from sleep apnea and it is a problem that many don’t even realize they might have. But what does this have to do with dentistry? Because sleep apnea is caused by an airway obstruction, the disorder can be treated through the mouth. The Thorton adjustable positioner, or Tap appliance is one of the more popular ways to treat sleep apnea. When the jawbone yes lax, the tongue and soft tissue obstruct the airway. The tap appliance advances the jaw bone, allowing the air to flow freely and making sleep more restful throughout the night. If you think you might suffer from sleep apnea, talk to your dentist today about possible treatment options.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when your breathing stops when you are sleeping. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. This type occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse, blocking the airway. Although not common, some patients suffer from central sleep apnea (CSA), where the brain fails to signal the breathing muscles.
If you have sleep apnea, breathing stops momentarily, but this can occur up to a hundred times in a night. This denies your body the much-needed oxygen, resulting in numerous health complications.
How can I tell I have sleep apnea? Most cases of sleep apnea are undiagnosed because the sufferers aren’t aware of the condition. Unless your bed partner tells you, you will barely notice your snoring habit or pause in breathing. However, you may notice the following signs over time.
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Poor concentration
- Waking up with a sore or dry mouth
- Morning headaches
- Reduced sex drive
If you suspect sleep apnea, don’t take it lightly. Instead, schedule a consultation with a sleep apnea dentist like Dr. Tiffany Fritz for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right For You?
Can a simple oral appliance help you sleep deeply and wake up refreshed?
Find out easily by calling Piney Creek Family Dentistry. Schedule a personalized evaluation with sleep apnea dentist Dr. Tiffany Fritz. We will walk you through what to expect and help you decide if oral appliance therapy is right for you in Centennial, CO.Â
How we treat sleep apnea
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is usually the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. While this therapy works, most patients fall through the treatment, citing numerous reasons, including cumbersomeness, irritation, and noise.
If CPAPs aren’t working for you, we have a simple, non-invasive option. We offer oral appliance therapy, which uses a customized dental device. Once the oral device is in place, it pushes the lower jaw forward to reposition your tongue, preventing it from collapsing while sleeping. This treatment works effectively for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
Why do I have sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea affects about 25-30 million Americans, and most cases remain undiagnosed. The most prevalent form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which happens when the soft tissues in the throat relax excessively during sleep. This blocks your airway. Breathing briefly stops, then starts again with a gasp.
Several factors can increase the risk of OSA:
- Excess weight
- A naturally narrow airway
- Large tonsils or tongue
- Smoking or alcohol use
- Sleeping on your back
Genetics can also play a role. If family members have it, your chances may be higher. The important thing to know? Sleep apnea is treatable, and it rarely involves surgery.
Does sleep apnea affect children?
Yes! Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate, and it can affect children, too. Pediatric sleep apnea is often linked to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and its signs include:
- Snoring or restless nights
- Trouble focusing
- Hyperactivity
- Mouth breathing
- Nighttime bedwetting
- Irritability
While parents assume children will outgrow it, untreated sleep apnea often creates lasting challenges. Studies have linked pediatric sleep apnea to academic struggles, delayed growth, and behavioral concerns. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term complications.
Why should I treat sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea affects more than your sleep. Untreated sleep apnea puts stress on your entire body. Over time, this heightens the risk of several systemic conditions, including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, dementia, depression, and more.
Treating sleep apnea protects your overall health. It also restores your energy and mood. When you are well rested, you wake up refreshed, and your body and mind function better. No more daytime irritability, brain fog, and low energy.
Does my dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
Your dentist plays an important role, but they don’t replace a sleep physician. Your sleep apnea dentist can screen for signs and symptoms and assess your airway. However, the definitive diagnosis for sleep apnea is typically made with a sleep test, often guided by a physician. Once diagnosed, a dentist trained in sleep medicine helps you manage the condition with non-surgical, drug-free therapies.
Does sleep apnea treatment always involve CPAP therapy?
No. CPAP isn’t your only option. A CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure) is highly effective, but not everyone finds it comfortable. Other options include a custom oral appliance that keeps your airway open at night. Many patients love oral appliances because they are portable, discreet, comfortable, and easy to use.
How long will it take to feel comfortable with a sleep apnea nightguard?
It takes your mouth some time to get used to a nightguard. In the first days, you may experience restless sleep, increased drooling, or a weird feeling, like your mouth is full. However, everything feels natural again after a few weeks once your mouth adapts. If discomfort persists, a follow-up visit can help fine-tune the fit.
How much does sleep apnea treatment cost in Centennial, CO?
The cost varies from patient to patient. It depends on your specific needs and the type of treatment. For oral appliance therapy, the cost depends on the materials used, the level of customization, and insurance coverage. The best way to know? Schedule a consultation with a sleep apnea dentist near you.
Where can I find a sleep apnea dentist in Centennial, CO?
Don’t let sleep apnea take control of your life and health. Dial (303) 562-1051 and schedule a consultation with Piney Creek Family Dentistry. We’ll help restore your healthy sleep and breathing so that you can feel like yourself again.
CPAP alternatives for sleep apnea treatment
Can’t tolerate CPAP? We offer a simple yet effective sleep apnea solution in Centennial, Aurora, Parker, CO, and nearby locations. Our customized dental device is non-invasive, easy to use, and effective in treating most sleep apnea patients. Please dial (303) 562-1051 to schedule an appointment with Piney Creek Family Dentistry to get started.
