Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder characterized by a temporary stop in breathing multiple times during the time a person sleeps. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain doesn’t send proper breathing signals to the body during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the throat collapse and block the airway during sleep.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Treatment options vary depending on the type of sleep apnea and its severity. If you have central sleep apnea, seeking a consultation with a specialized sleep doctor will be the best option for correcting the issue.
If you’re dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, you have a few options, including dental intervention. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea can benefit from a CPAP machine, which is a device with an air mask that patients wear while they sleep. However, many patients feel that CPAP machines are uncomfortable to sleep in. Oral appliance therapy through your dentist is a CPAP alternative!
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
Oral appliance therapy involves a custom-fitted, retainer-like device to combat symptoms of sleep apnea. The device repositions the jaw while you sleep and helps keep the soft tissues of the throat in their proper place so they can’t block your airway. One of the great benefits of oral appliance therapy is that you can visit a trained dentist to receive this sleep apnea treatment.
Schedule a Consultation for Sleep Apnea Treatment!
Getting enough quality sleep every night is an important part of maintaining a healthy body and smile. At Broadway Dental of Pearland, our team offers oral appliance therapy to help treat sleep apnea. Please contact us today to schedule your sleep apnea treatment consultation.