Sleep Apnea Therapy – Fort Worth, TX
Fixing Your Sleepless Nights at the Source
Are you tired, stressed out, and moody because of interrupted sleep? Sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops for periods of 10 seconds or longer, can interrupt deep sleep crucial for feeling rested. Non-surgical dental appliances have proven more effective than surgery for many patients in need of sleep apnea therapy in Fort Worth, TX.
What is Sleep Apnea?
When a sleeping person stops breathing for 10 or more seconds, they have “apnea.” OSAS, or obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, is one type of sleep apnea. Lack of adequate breath during sleep reduces airflow, causing the brain to tell the body to wake up and breathe. In some cases, sleep apnea patients only move into a lighter stage of sleep, while other times, patients wake completely.
What’s the Problem?
Many factors may contribute to airway blockage, from the size of passages and oral or airway structures to swelling of passageways or position of the tongue. Disrupted deep sleep can affect mood, health, and cause daytime sleepiness. The added stress and fatigue can cause lack of concentration, loss of memory, and accidents in the workplace or while driving. Other health risks include high blood pressure and heart problems, and even a risk of premature death. The sleep apnea patient’s snores can disturb a sleeping partner’s rest, too.
Non-Surgical Sleep Apnea Therapies
A few tests can determine whether you suffer from OSAS, and non-surgical therapies may alleviate the problem. A nasal mask (CPAP) can deliver air to keep nasal passages open during sleep. Even more effective, patients may now wear dental appliances that reposition the tongue or mandible (lower jawbone). A Swedish study showed that the anterior mandibular positioning dental device (AMP) is actually more effective than surgical therapies. The same study stated that adverse health effects and appliance repairs were rare.
According to experts, sleep apnea is an under-diagnosed condition, and more men than women tend to suffer. If your sleeping partner says you snore or stop breathing while asleep, or if you experience daytime sleepiness, contact our dental office in Fort Worth for a consultation. A sleep apnea device may improve your quality of life. It’s just another way your dentist can help you smile.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Why Should I See a Dentist for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Although it may not be the first connection that comes to mind, dentists often play an important role in helping manage sleep apnea because of their understanding of the mouth, jaw, and airway. In obstructive sleep apnea, soft tissues in the mouth and throat can collapse during sleep and interfere with normal breathing. Dental treatment options, such as oral appliances, can help guide the lower jaw into a position that keeps the airway more open throughout the night. Regular dental visits also make it easier to discuss symptoms and explore possible solutions without needing to start care at a separate specialty office.
Will Oral Appliance Therapy Make CPAP Therapy Unnecessary?
While CPAP machines help force air through a patient’s airways, only about half of people who are prescribed this therapy actually use the device. For more mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, an oral appliance is the more popular alternative. That said, if your condition is more severe, it’s often a good idea to combine an oral appliance and CPAP machine to help you get better rest. Talk with your sleep doctor and dentist about your options so they can help determine the best approach.
Does Everyone Who Snores Have Sleep Apnea?
Loud snoring can sometimes point to sleep apnea, but the two aren’t always connected. Some people snore without having a sleep disorder, while others with sleep apnea may barely snore at all. Even so, ongoing snoring during rest can be a sign that your breathing is being interrupted or blocked, so it’s important not to ignore it. Our team can help with a sleep test and determine if oral appliance therapy is needed to help you stop snoring during bedtime.
How Soon After Starting Sleep Apnea Treatment Will I Notice Improvement?
CPAP therapy typically requires some adjustment time when wearing the mask. With oral appliance therapy, patients usually notice improved sleep almost immediately. Even so, it can still take a night or two to get used to having the oral appliance in your mouth. The best way to know if your treatment is working is by taking another sleep test, and our dental team will be more than happy to help with that process. If you notice your sleep apnea symptoms lessening, then it’s a great sign!
Are There Home Remedies for Sleep Apnea?
Some at-home changes might help ease sleep apnea symptoms, such as building a consistent sleep routine, limiting screen time before bed, staying physically active during the day, and using comfort-focused items like weighted blankets to promote relaxation at night. While these habits can support better sleep quality, they won’t correct the underlying airway obstruction that causes sleep apnea. For lasting improvement, professional treatment is typically needed, which may include options like oral appliance therapy or CPAP therapy designed to keep the airway open and improve breathing throughout the night. A combination of professional care and personal health can also promote a positive feedback loop. For example, those who are overweight can significantly reduce their sleep apnea symptoms through physical fitness, but an oral appliance can help a person sleep well enough to improve their energy to diet and exercise.