If you suffer from sleep apnea, our experienced prosthodontist may recommend oral appliance therapy to help manage your condition so that you can breathe easily while asleep and get the rest you need. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition and may lead to other health problems, so we recommend seeking a diagnosis and treatment as soon as you suspect you may have it. Call Valley Dental Group today at 602-956-2260 to learn more about sleep apnea therapy in Phoenix, Arizona, and schedule your consultation with Dr. George Eifler!
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes disruptions in your breathing during sleep. These disruptions can occur multiple times throughout the night and can last for several seconds or even minutes. Sleep apnea can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating and other health problems. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and occurs when your airway becomes blocked during sleep.
There are several factors that can contribute to sleep apnea, including obesity, smoking, alcohol use and family history. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and stroke, can also increase your risk for sleep apnea. The most common symptom is snoring. Other symptoms may include pauses in breathing during sleep, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating and increased irritability. If you experience any of these, it is important to see a sleep medicine doctor for a diagnosis. They will usually start by reviewing your medical history and asking about your symptoms. They may also order a sleep study to monitor your breathing during sleep. In some cases, additional tests may be needed to rule out other conditions.
Medical therapies aim to improve sleep apnea by changing the way you breathe. One common medical therapy is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). CPAP involves wearing a mask over your nose and mouth during sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that gently blows air into your throat at a consistent rate, keeping your airway open. Another medical therapy for sleep apnea is an oral appliance. This device is worn in your mouth and holds your lower jaw slightly forward, keeping your airway open. Lifestyle changes, like losing weight or quitting smoking, can also help.
Come in to Valley Dental Group to seek treatment for your sleep apnea. Let us help you get the good night’s sleep and quality of life that you deserve.