1360 N Winchester Blvd #3, San Jose, CA 95128
Monday to Thursday 9AM - 6PM | Friday By Appointment Only
Sleep Apnea Management
Understanding Sleep Apnea
If you struggle with loud snoring, restless nights, or constant fatigue during the day, you may be experiencing sleep apnea; a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Left untreated, it can impact your health, mood, and quality of life.
At Sandra P Lara DDS, we offer comfortable, custom-fitted Oral Appliances to help you sleep soundly again.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common but potentially serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to a blocked upper airway. This blockage usually occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax too much, causing the airway to collapse.
As a result, the person with OSA experiences frequent interruptions in breathing, which can cause a drop in blood oxygen levels and disturb sleep. Over time, OSA can contribute to various health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cognitive impairment.
Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms:
• Frequent loud snoring with pauses in breathing
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood swings
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
• Being overweight or obese
• Having a thick neck circumference
• Being male
• Being older
• Having a family history of sleep apnea
• Using alcohol or sedatives, which relax throat muscles
• Smoking
• Chronic nasal congestion
Traditional Treatments for Sleep Apnea
Traditionally, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP involves wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth, connected to a machine that provides a constant flow of air to keep the airway open during sleep. While effective, many patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable and challenging to use consistently.
Dental Solutions for Sleep Apnea
Oral Appliance Therapy
A Comfortable Alternative for individuals who find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or have mild to moderate OSA, oral appliance therapy offers a convenient and effective alternative. Oral appliances are custom-made devices that fit in the mouth, similar to a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer. These appliances help maintain an open airway by repositioning the lower jaw, tongue, and soft tissues, preventing the collapse of the airway during sleep.
How Effective Are Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea?
Oral appliances can be highly effective in treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Research suggests that these devices significantly reduce snoring and improve sleep quality for many patients. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of the sleep apnea and the patient’s compliance with wearing the device regularly. For those with severe OSA, oral appliances may be less effective than other treatments, such as CPAP therapy. It’s important to work with a dentist or sleep specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your condition.
Benefits of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
- Oral appliances are custom-fitted to the patient’s mouth, making them more comfortable than CPAP masks. They are also easy to wear and transport, making them ideal for travel.
- Research suggests oral appliances effectively treat mild to moderate OSA and reduce snoring, improving sleep quality.
- Unlike surgery, oral appliances are a non-invasive treatment option for OSA. They are also easier to tolerate than CPAP for many patients.
- Patients are more likely to use oral appliances consistently, leading to better long-term outcomes.
Collaboration with Sleep Specialists
We work closely with medical sleep specialists to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
If you haven’t had a sleep study yet, we can refer you to a trusted provider for testing and diagnosis before creating your personalized dental appliance.
What Oral Appliances Are Used for Sleep Apnea?
Several oral appliances are used to manage sleep apnea, each with a specific function to keep the airway open:
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
The most commonly prescribed type for sleep apnea, these devices reposition the lower jaw to prevent airway collapse.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
These are used primarily for patients who have difficulty using MADs or have specific tongue-related obstructions.
Custom-Fit Appliances
Made by dental professionals, these appliances are tailored specifically to the patient’s mouth for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
Adjustable Oral Appliances
These allow for incremental adjustments to the position of the jaw, providing greater flexibility and comfort for the patient.
Ongoing Support & Care
Your sleep health is an ongoing process. We’ll monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and check your bite and jaw comfort during follow-up visits.
Our goal is to ensure your treatment remains effective and comfortable for years to come.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
You deserve a good night’s rest — and it’s closer than you think.
If you or your partner notice signs of snoring or interrupted breathing, contact Sandra P Lara DDS today to schedule a sleep apnea consultation.
We will help you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake up feeling refreshed.
We look forward to hearing from you…
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