Prioritizing Sleep Health for Better Overall Wellness
We prioritize our patients’ overall health, including their sleep health. Sleep disruptive disorders can be dangerous and cause a lack of oxygen at night, increasing the risk of a heart attack by 23 times the average. Additionally, 92% of stroke victims unknowingly live with this condition before an attack. Our training enables us to provide education and treatment for sleep health in the most cost-effective and straightforward manner possible.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects over twelve million Americans, with many cases remaining undiagnosed, contributing to a range of health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and drowsy driving-related accidents. As dental professionals, we play a vital role in treating this silent epidemic. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances as a primary therapy for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for patients with severe sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP treatment.
What is OSA?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder that is characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep due to a blockage in the airway. These obstructions occur when the throat muscles, tongue, tonsils, or soft palate fall back into the throat. This results in a severe drop in blood oxygen levels throughout the night.
When diagnosing OSA, typically a polysomnogram or sleep study is conducted. The sleep physician will monitor brain activity and body system functioning while the patient rests overnight at a sleep lab. The specialist will evaluate the study’s data collected to diagnose sleep disorders and recommend treatment. If indicated by the sleep doctor, a dentist trained in sleep medicine may work with the physician to treat obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. In some cases, a home sleep study may also be possible instead of reporting to a sleep lab.
How Is OSA Treated?
Treatment for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea can involve medical procedures such as surgery or utilization of CPAP or BiPAP machines. Alternatively, less invasive oral appliance therapy may be utilized for mild to moderate cases of OSA. A meticulously adjusted appliance can comfortably maintain the jaw in the optimal position to promote critical oxygen flow during sleep.
It is important to consult with a sleep physician to determine the best treatment plan. Once a consistent plan is established, our dental specialists can provide vital support for your efforts. If oral appliance therapy is chosen, it is crucial to ensure the method and placement are designed to precisely manage your airway.