Sleep Apnea Treatment
Living with (OSA) can be stressful as you aren’t always aware of what’s happening while you’re resting. To keep the airway open during sleep, our Tampa, FL, dentist can create a custom-made oral appliance, or type of night guard, for you that helps reposition the lower jaw and tongue to prevent blockage from occurring. Effective for mild to moderate conditions of this nature, sleep apnea treatment improves breathing, reduces snoring, and enhances overall sleep quality.
Discover more about sleep apnea and how we help you find relief below.
Who’s at Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA occurs when there is a blockage in your airway that prevents air from moving freely through your windpipe while you sleep. Instead of even breaths, there are periods of no breathing which result in blood oxygen levels dropping and the activation of a survival reflex that wakes you up enough to breathe properly. This disruptive condition affects millions of people, with certain risk factors making some individuals more susceptible.
- Are overweight
- Have a thick neck circumference
- Suffer from narrowed airways
- Are male
- Are older (65 and up)
- Have a family history of sleep apnea
Symptoms of OSA include loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking, and daytime grogginess. Other signs may include morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.
Meet our Dentist
Treating Sleep Apnea At The Dentist
Typically, sleep disorder treatment with a dental professional, like our very own Dr. Guerra, involves the use of a custom oral device designed to keep the airway open during sleep. These appliances, known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), work by moving the lower jaw and tongue in a way that prevents blockage of the airway. Our dentist will take impressions of your teeth and may collaborate with a sleep specialist or your general doctor to create a device that fits comfortably and effectively. For many patients, these oral appliances offer a less invasive and more comfortable alternative to a CPAP machine. Regular follow-ups at our Tampa dental office ensure the appliance remains effective and adjustments can be made as needed. In some cases, we may also recommend lifestyle changes like weight loss or trying different sleeping positions for a comprehensive approach to treating sleep apnea.
Breathe Easier at Night
Choosing to treat sleep apnea with the help of our dentist in Tampa, FL, can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life. With a custom-made oral appliance, you can both achieve a more restful night’s sleep and reduce your risk of developing serious health complications. Don’t let sleep apnea compromise your health and well-being. Call Imagine Dental today at (813) 866-7080 to request an appointment.