Sleep Assessment
Do you struggle to get a good night’s rest because you frequently stop breathing while you’re sleeping? You’re not alone. Over 18 million Americans also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. People from all walks of life cope with the condition, including many of your favorite celebrities, like Shaquille O’Neal, Reggie White, and Randy Jackson. Most fans don’t know they have the condition because they’ve received the appropriate treatment. You can breathe better and get the rest you need with the help of your sleep dentist in Topeka.
Options to Treat Sleep Apnea
Although there are 3 types of sleep apnea, the most common form is caused by an obstruction in the airway. Obstructive sleep apnea causes frequent pauses in breathing because the soft tissues in the back of the mouth and throat collapse to block the airway. Not only can you lose sleep at night, but also develop an increased risk of several health issues, like cardiovascular disease. You can protect your health and your quality of life with the right treatment. Sleep apnea therapy works by keeping the airway open to prevent any obstruction.
Thanks to new innovations, you now have multiple options for sleep apnea treatment in Topeka. Your sleep dentist will evaluate your case and your preferences to determine which solution is right for you:
CPAP Machine
A CPAP is the most traditional treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. The machine delivers a steady stream of air pressure through a mask worn over the mouth or nose to prevent the soft tissues from collapsing. When used correctly, it significantly decreases pauses in breathing to stop your symptoms. This is an effective solution to treat all severities of the sleep disorder; however, it can be bothersome for some patients.
Oral Appliance
An oral appliance is an effective alternative to a CPAP for patients who have mild to moderate sleep apnea. In some cases, it can even be used along with a CPAP. The small custom-fit device might look like an athletic mouthguard, but it serves another purpose. It gently protrudes the mandibular forward and holds the tongue in position to keep the airways open. Many patients report to see an improvement in their symptoms after just one night of using the appliance.
Which is the Right Treatment for Me?
After receiving your diagnosis of sleep apnea, you’ll visit your dentist for treatment. They will evaluate the results of your sleep study and discuss your preferences to create a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs.
Sleep Better Today
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you can take control of your wellbeing and quality of life with the right treatment. Your dentist will help you find the ideal solution to breathe better for a good night’s rest.
About Dr. Michael E. Michel
Dr. Michel is more than just a general dentist. He’s also trained in sleep apnea. He’s completed advanced training to offer the latest solutions for sleep apnea therapy, including the use of oral appliances. If you need an alternative to a CPAP, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.