Effective Sleep Apnea Treatment Gilbert, AZ
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition marked by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. This occurs when the throat muscles relax, and the tongue falls back, blocking the airway during sleep. Common health conditions that can be due to sleep apnea include daytime tiredness, morning headaches, depression and anxiety, increased risk of stroke and dementia, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and reduced libido.
In fact, patients with untreated OSA have an increased risk of heart attacks by 23 times. Also, 92% of stroke victims are unaware of their apneic condition beforehand.
Riggs Family Dental prioritizes our patients’ overall well-being, including their sleep quality. Many individuals unknowingly suffer from sleep-related disorders that reduce oxygen intake at night, significantly impacting their health. Using our expertise, we aim to identify those at risk for OSA and offer simple, affordable sleep testing and treatment options to help improve sleep health.
What is Sleep Apnea?
- Obstructive sleep apnea: The most common form, occurring when throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, blocking the airway and restricting airflow.
- Central sleep apnea: A less common condition in which the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing, causing temporary pauses in respiration.
- Complex sleep apnea syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this condition is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
While loud snoring is frequently linked to sleep apnea, it is not a definitive symptom. Risk factors include obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and genetic predisposition. Family history also plays a key role, as individuals with relatives affected by sleep apnea are more likely to develop the condition. According to the Sleep Foundation, sleep apnea affects people of all ages, including children and adults, though it is more commonly diagnosed in men.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a polysomnogram, commonly known as a sleep study. This test can be conducted either at home or in a specialized sleep center. It monitors various physiological activities during sleep, including brain activity, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, sleep stages, snoring, body positioning, and episodes of breathing cessation.
After the sleep study, a specialist carefully analyzes the data to assess brain activity and other vital functions, identifying any sleep disorders and determining the most appropriate treatment.
If necessary, a dentist trained in sleep medicine may collaborate with the specialist to treat obstructive sleep apnea using oral appliance therapy. Our dental office offers consultations for individuals interested in sleep apnea oral appliances. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Here are some of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. However, having one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean you have the condition. A medical evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
- Intensely loud snoring
- Persistent daytime fatigue and lack of energy
- Recurring headaches
- Restless sleep patterns
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
- Waking with a dry or sore throat
- Experiencing gasping or choking sensations during the night
- Sudden shifts in mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent nighttime visits to the bathroom
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Common treatment options for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea include surgical procedures, CPAP or BiPAP machines, and oral appliance therapy. Among these, oral appliances provide a minimally invasive solution, particularly for individuals with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These custom-fitted devices help maintain the jaw in an optimal position during sleep, improving airflow and oxygen levels.
It’s essential to consult with your sleep physician to determine the most effective treatment for your condition. Once a plan is established, we offer the support you need to stay on track. If oral appliance therapy is recommended, ensuring a precise fit and proper positioning is key to keeping your airway open throughout the night.