Sleep Apnea Specialist

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a type of sleep disorder in which your breathing starts and stops repeatedly. It can cause a variety of symptoms and reduce sleep quality. Seeking treatment for sleep apnea is one of the best ways to wake up feeling well-rested and improve your quality of life.

What are common symptoms of sleep apnea?

Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Periods of stopped breathing
• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty sleeping
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Irritability
• Problems focusing

Your chance of having chronic diseases increases with sleep apnea. It can put you at risk of work-related problems or automobile accidents linked with fatigue. 

What are the risk factors for sleep apnea?

Anyone can develop sleep apnea, but some factors boost your risk of experiencing it. Examples include:

• Obesity
• Having a thicker neck
• Being male
• Narrow airway
• Family history of sleep apnea
• Alcohol or sedative use
• Older age
• Medical conditions
• Nasal congestion

See the Design Dental Spa team if you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea or you suspect you have the condition.

How does my provider diagnose sleep apnea?

A doctor often diagnoses sleep apnea after reviewing your medical history and symptoms, completing a physical examination, and having you undergo a sleep study in a facility or at home if necessary. They discuss your treatment options, which could include wearing an oral device at night when you sleep.

What happens during my treatment?

The dental team at Design Dental Spa can create a custom-fitted oral appliance that fits comfortably inside your mouth, keeping your airway open while you sleep. The device helps bring your jaw forward, reducing the risk of snoring and improving airflow. Simply place the device in your mouth before you go to bed and take it out in the morning when you wake up.

The result is often better sleep and improvements in your overall quality of life. Using oral appliances could help you avoid the need for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or other less-convenient options.

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and want symptom relief, call the Design Dental Spa office or book an appointment online today.