Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder, affecting nearly one billion adults worldwide, although the prevalence may be higher as this disorder often goes undiagnosed. Interruptions in breathing as you sleep cause daytime tiredness, a lack of focus, and when left untreated, more serious health concerns.
While OSA is detrimental to your overall health, reliable sleep apnea treatment options are available to you. Understanding your symptoms is the first step to better, more effective sleep.
Who May Need Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Although many patients have no noticeable OSA symptoms, there are two that are the most common: excessive daytime tiredness and loud snoring at night. Patients often learn they have sleep apnea after their sleeping partner tells them of their loud snoring.
You may be a candidate for sleep apnea treatment if you have the following sleep-related symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Tossing and turning during sleep
- Breathing through the mouth while sleeping
- Waking up feeling tired, with headaches, or a dry throat
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Trouble with memory or impaired concentration
Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the relaxation of the muscles around the throat. As these muscles relax, the airway becomes restricted, causing you to gasp, choke, or loudly snore to take in air.
The Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
- More restful sleep
- Lower risk of heart problems
- Lower risk of stroke
- Better management of diabetes
- Reduction in daytime sleepiness
What Is Sleep Apnea Treatment?
The two most common sleep apnea treatments are the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine and the mandibular advancement device.
- CPAP is the most common treatment, as it can benefit those with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. The CPAP machine delivers air through a mask while you sleep, minimizing interruptions as you receive continuous airflow. The CPAP is the most reliable method of sleep apnea treatment; however, some patients find it cumbersome to sleep with and uncomfortable to use.
- Mandibular advancement devices are easier treatments that can be provided by your dentist. This oral appliance is inserted into your mouth like a mouth guard and designed to keep your throat open, naturally allowing airflow to enter. Dental appliances for OSA are more comfortable than CPAP, as your movement is not restricted by being connected to a machine.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treatment Performed?
After determining your diagnosis, the severity of your symptoms, and the type of treatment ideal for your needs, you can make an appointment with Dr. Gum to be fitted for a dental appliance to help your OSA.
Your dental appliance for sleep apnea is easier to apply at night, can travel easier than a CPAP machine, and is more comfortable to use. Dr. Gum will work with you to assess the best treatment for your sleep apnea to get you on the path to better, more restful sleep.
What Results Can I Expect From Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Sleep apnea treatment from Gum Dental can be a life-changing experience. You can sleep soundly and awake feeling rested.
Receiving sleep apnea treatment can give you greater energy and better cognitive function while allowing your partner to get a good night’s rest.
Interested in Sleep Apnea Treatment in Pennsylvania?
If you’d like to learn more about sleep apnea treatment and how Dr. Julie Gum and the team at Gum Dental can give you the night’s rest you deserve, call us today at (610) 746-0488 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.