Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a common yet often overlooked sleep disorder that affects millions of individuals across the United States. While it can have serious consequences for your overall health, the good news is that there are effective treatments available, including personalized oral appliance therapy fitted by our trained sleep dentist in Urbandale.
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These interruptions can occur hundreds of times, disrupting your natural sleep cycle and preventing your body from reaching the deep, restorative rest it needs. Over time, untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of serious health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and even heart attack.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Snoring or gasping for air during sleep
- Waking with a headache or dry mouth
- Daytime fatigue, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
- Weight gain or a larger than average neck circumference
- Worn or flattened teeth from grinding
- High blood pressure or changes in mood
The most common form, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax too much and block the airway. Because the problem begins in the mouth and throat, dentists trained in sleep dentistry can often help manage OSA effectively.
Mouthguards for Sleep Apnea in Urbandale
At Plaza Dental Group, our experienced dentists provide oral appliance therapy as an effective, non-invasive solution for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea. These custom devices, sometimes called mandibular advancement devices (MADs), reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open while you sleep.
How Oral Appliances Work
- Customized fit: We take precise impressions of your teeth to create a device that fits comfortably and securely.
- Improved airflow: The appliance prevents the collapse of airway tissues, allowing for steady breathing throughout the night.
- Better rest: By reducing or eliminating apneas, patients enjoy deeper sleep, less fatigue, and improved overall health.
- Comfort and convenience: Unlike bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are small, non-invasive, and easy to use or travel with.
Oral appliances are most effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea, or for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP machines. In more severe cases, we collaborate closely with sleep specialists to ensure you receive the best possible care.
