Sleep Apnea Solutions at Serene Dentistry: Customized Treatment Without a Bulky CPAP

Do you still feel tired after a full night’s sleep?

Do you snore?

Are you having trouble sleeping?

You may have Sleep Apnea.

Should I Be Concerned About Snoring?

Yes. Snoring can be a symptom of a more serious problem: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). If snoring is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it is a good idea to see your dentist for further evaluation for OSA:

• Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Morning headaches
• Sore throat upon awakening
• Restless sleep
• Gasping or choking at night
• High blood pressure
• Chest pain at night
• Your snoring is so loud it's disrupting your partner's sleep
• In children, poor attention span, behavioral issues or poor performance in school

What Makes Someone Snore?

As we sleep, the muscles responsible for keeping our airways open relax. The sound made when we snore results from the vibration of the tissues as air passes along the narrow section of the airways that remain open.

When Is Snoring Considered Dangerous?

Snoring becomes dangerous when it is associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA is a medical condition characterized by a temporary blockage of the air passages during sleep. This blockage causes the individual to periodically stop breathing. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is dangerous because these episodes deplete the brain of oxygen.

In addition, when someone has OSA, their deep restorative sleep is limited. This results in a lack of energy and difficulty concentrating during the day. OSA also increases your risk of having high blood pressure, a heart attack, and suffering a stroke.

Does Everyone Who Snores Have Sleep Apnea?

No. Not all snorers have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. However, most people who have OSA snore.

How Can I Determine if My Snoring Is a Sign of OSA?

If your bed partner complains about your snoring, you need to schedule an appointment for an evaluation. At Serene Dentistry, we can determine if you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea and then provide you with treatment if you do.

What Signs Indicate That I May Have OSA?

Besides loud snoring, you may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea if you experience:

• Difficulty concentrating.
• Daytime sleepiness.
• Weight issues.
• Grogginess upon waking.
• Bouts of moodiness.
• Anxiety.
• Frequent irritability.

What’s the Usual Treatment for OSA?

The most common solution for people with OSA is a CPAP machine. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.

How Does a CPAP Machine Work?

The CPAP machine uses positive air pressure to keep the airways open while they sleep.

Negative Aspects of CPAP Machines

Although treatment with a CPAP machine is very effective for those with OSA, it isn’t a convenient solution.

While using their CPAP machine, patients must wear a facemask or nasal pillow. These devices are connected to the CPAP machine via a hose. So, it can be difficult for the CPAP user to find a comfortable sleeping position. In addition, the wearer must be able to maneuver the hose as they're changing positions during sleep.

Furthermore, as the facemask and nasal pillow age, their seals begin to wear, allowing air to leak out, which makes it difficult to sleep.

Another negative aspect of using a CPAP machine to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the need for regular cleaning and maintenance. If the wearer doesn’t clean the mask and nasal pillow well, they may develop dermatitis. Moreover, a dirty hose and machine can lead to an upper respiratory infection.

Traveling with a CPAP machine is also difficult because the mask or nose pillow, hose, and machine must remain clean. The CPAP user must also have a place to put their machine while they sleep.

A More Comfortable OSA Treatment Option

At Serene Dentistry, we have a comfortable, FDA-approved solution for treating your OSA. With our treatment, you won’t need to wear a bulky facemask, nasal pillow, or maneuver a hose. Our Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment is also convenient because it doesn’t require a power source.

An Oral Appliance Can Treat OSA

To treat your OSA, all you need is an oral appliance that resembles the mouthguard worn by athletes. This appliance is comfortable, quiet, highly effective, and portable.

A Custom Solution for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

We custom-design an oral appliance that keeps your jaw slightly forward as you sleep. By moving your jaw forward, your airways remain open, allowing you to enjoy an uninterrupted, restful night’s sleep.

What Are the Benefits of Seeking Treatment for OSA?

Sleep Apnea treatment can greatly improve your everyday life.

Once you start wearing your oral appliance, you’ll be surprised at how much better you sleep. Your energy will increase, you’ll be less irritable, and you can wake up feeling refreshed, instead of groggy. In addition, you can expect improvement in your mental clarity and ability to focus.

Why You Should Choose Serene Dentistry

At Serene Dentistry, you'll find experienced and friendly professionals dedicated to providing you with the quality care you deserve. We want your experience to be exceptional, which is why the atmosphere at Serene Dentistry is designed with your comfort in mind.

If you or someone you care about has sleep-related issues, please request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you get a good night's sleep so you can live your best life.

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