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Sleep Apnea Treatment in Parker CO
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleeping disorders, and it affects millions of Americans every year. Most people who have minor to moderate cases of sleep apnea are unaware that they even suffer from this condition.
However, even moderate cases of sleep apnea reduce the ability to get restful sleep, and can even result in an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
At Green Dental Care, Dr. Christopher Green can help you get treatment for sleep apnea in Parker, Franktown, and Elizabeth. Learn more about this condition below, and schedule your appointment right away.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea – The Most Common Type Of Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of apnea, and it occurs when the soft tissues of the mouth, palate, and throat become relaxed during sleep, and block the airway, interrupting normal breathing cycles. This usually prevents normal breathing for a few seconds, but can last up to 10 seconds or longer, interrupting oxygen flow to the lungs. It is important to note that while snoring is a sign of sleep apnea, it is not the same thing. Snoring is simply caused by turbulent airflow throughout the airway, which causes vibrations of soft tissues.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea – Signs And Symptoms
Do you think you or your partner may be suffering from sleep apnea? Here are a few signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for.
- Waking up in the middle of the night gasping or choking.
- Prolonged, severe snoring, with gaps and interruptions and “snorting”.
- Mood swings
- Not feeling well-rested after a full night of sleep
- Sore throat or dry mouth when waking up
- Morning Migraines
Have any of these symptoms? You may need to see Dr. Green or a sleep doctor for a comprehensive assessment.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
The most common treatment option for sleep apnea used to be a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. This machine uses a mask and a pump to gently pump air into the lungs and throat, preventing soft tissues from “sagging” and blocking the airway. However, CPAP machines are sometimes uncomfortable.
For this reason, the “oral appliance” is becoming popular for patients with mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. Similar in shape to a retainer or mouthguard, an oral appliance is built by a qualified dentist like Dr. Green, and it shifts the jaw muscles and tissue to prevent airway obstruction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dentists are trained to evaluate the mouth, jaw, tongue, and airway, all of which affect breathing during sleep. We can screen for risk factors and provide oral appliance therapy, which repositions the jaw to keep the airway open. We work alongside your physician to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
An oral appliance is a custom-made device, similar to a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, that you wear in your mouth while you sleep. It gently moves your lower jaw forward to keep the airway open. It is small, quiet, portable, and easy to care for.
CPAP is considered the gold standard, especially for severe sleep apnea, but many patients find it uncomfortable and stop using it. Oral appliances are a common alternative for mild to moderate sleep apnea, and for those who cannot tolerate CPAP. They require no electricity, hoses, or masks, which makes them easier to use and travel with. Your physician and dentist can help determine which is right for you.
Some patients experience temporary jaw soreness, dry mouth, excess saliva, or tooth tenderness as they adjust. Long-term use can occasionally cause slight changes in the bite. Regular follow-up visits allow us to monitor your teeth and jaw and address any concerns early.
Untreated sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and memory problems. It can also cause chronic exhaustion that affects work, relationships, and safety, including a higher risk of drowsy driving. Early treatment can significantly improve both your sleep and your long-term health.