FEELING A BIT TIRED at times during the day is completely normal, even with a good night’s sleep. Some people, however, struggle every night for a restful sleep, especially those with sleep apnea.
 
Did you know that one in five adults has obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with 80 percent of cases going undiagnosed? This condition can disrupt your sleep and increase your risk of severe health problems.

Sleep apnea occurs when your muscles relax during sleep, allowing soft tissue to collapse and block the airway. This can cause a person to stop breathing hundreds of times per night, immensely disrupting their sleep. Here are some indications of a problem:

• Morning headaches
• Excessive daytime drowsiness
• Irritability
• Impaired mental or emotional functioning
• Insomnia
• Excessive snoring, choking or gasping during sleep
• Waking with dry mouth or sore throat

 

Dentists are often the first professionals to become aware of a potential case of OSA and many are specially trained for the treatment of sleep apnea. We are just such a practice!
 
While the most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliance therapy that dentists provide is the increasingly preferred form of treatment. This is due to the high rejection rate of CPAP therapy and the fact that oral appliances are much more convenient, portable, and easy to care for.

Oral appliance therapy uses a mouth guard-like device to maintain an open, unobstructed airway while you sleep. They are typically as easy to wear as most retainers. There are two ways the oral appliance works to open up your airway:

1. By repositioning your lower jaw, it keeps your throat muscles engaged as you sleep, preventing them from collapsing.
2. Oral appliances can also move your tongue forward, keeping it from falling back and blocking the throat.
   
   

We work with local a Sleep Physician to determine your diagnosis and whether or not an oral appliance is right for you.

Never underestimate the power of a good night’s rest! The quality of your sleep is extremely important to your overall health and well-being. Ask us today how you can better your life by treating sleep apnea through oral appliance therapy!
 
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
 

You would think of having your tonsils or appendix out without sedation, why should complex dental procedures be any different.  Oral conscious sedation could be for you.  

You are given a pill to take one hour prior to your dental appointment.  Your companion will accompany you to the office.  When you arrive, you will be very drowsy.  You will relax into a very comfortable chair, covered with a thick, warm, cozy blanket.  Your vital signs will be monitored.  After you are comfortable, our experienced clinical team will take care of your dental needs.  When your treatment is completed your companion will return you home to finish your relaxing sleep.

The Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation brings you members who believe in excellent care delivered in a safe environment.  Our members have been carefully trained and have a network of support to care for special needs.  We pride ourselves on the level of commitment you will receive by honest, caring doctors and their team of highly trained professionals.