Sleep Apnea Treatment Milltown

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects your ability to breathe freely while sleeping. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more prevalent than other forms and occurs when the airway becomes blocked by collapsing throat muscles. Without the free flow of air, a person will stop breathing. Then, they will suddenly wake up and begin to choke or gasp for air. This can happen once or hundreds of times each night. Without treatment, it can lead to long-term health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more.

How At-Home Sleep Testing Works

Before you can begin to receive treatment for your sleep apnea, our dentists will need to make sure that you receive a formal diagnosis. This requires an at-home sleep test. To start this process, you will meet with a member of our team who will ensure you receive a home kit that you will wear while you are asleep.

The device will monitor your oxygen levels, breathing, physical movements, and sleep patterns to determine if you stop receiving proper airflow throughout the night. Each device includes multiple sensors that gauge these measures so that they can be evaluated and analyzed by a trusted physician.

Once the study is complete and your results are reviewed, we will determine if you are cleared to move forward with sleep apnea treatment.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

There are many options when it comes to treating sleep apnea. The most common method is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, which pushes air through a nasal or face mask, keeping your airway open so that you can breathe freely while you’re asleep. These devices are known for producing positive results; however, they do have some drawbacks, such as:

• They’re often bulky and hard to maneuver
• They can be loud, making it hard to fall asleep
• The mask can be uncomfortable to wear
• They are often not easy to travel with

Fortunately, there is an alternative to CPAP therapy that our team at SN Family Dental Studio of Milltown can provide – oral appliances. Similar to a traditional mouthguard, this device is custom-made to fit your mouth and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. By shifting your jaw forward slightly, it keeps your airway open so that you can breathe without fear of obstruction. Not to mention, they’re small, portable, and easy to use!