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Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life threatening disorder involving repeated pauses in breathing while asleep. The most common form of this condition is obstructive sleep apnea. This occurs when there is an obstruction of an individual’s airway that interferes with the flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth during sleep. In someone afflicted with obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles of the throat and mouth relax during sleep to the point where they fall back into the upper airway and create a blockage that restricts breathing.
The signs and symptoms of this disorder during sleeping hours may include, loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation, abrupt awakenings, episodes of gasping for air, along with difficulties getting a good night’s sleep. An individual with sleep apnea will exhibit problems during the day as well. Sleep apnea can lead to a morning headache, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.
A sleep study is typically conducted to determine the severity of the disorder. The results of this study along with other medical findings will play a role in determining the recommended therapy. The most common form of therapy is a CPAP machine that is worn when sleeping. This device provides a steady stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.
In situations of mild to moderate sleep apnea, a dental appliance may be deemed the appropriate treatment. Worn in a similar fashion to a mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer, it is designed to help keep the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing, thereby enabling the airway to stay open during sleep. An oral appliance is easy to wear, easy to care for, comfortable, and portable. Oral appliances are individually fabricated, and customized for both maximum effectiveness and comfort.
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. This can lead to poor sleep quality and various health issues.
The most common types are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when throat muscles relax excessively, and central sleep apnea (CSA), which happens when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe.
Symptoms include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, either in a sleep lab or at home, where your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other vital signs are monitored during sleep.
We offer several treatments, including custom oral appliances, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, lifestyle changes, and positional therapy. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs.
Oral appliances help keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw and tongue during sleep. They are often recommended for those who prefer a non-CPAP option.
Yes, our custom oral appliances are designed for comfort and effectiveness. We work with you to ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments.
During your first visit, we will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform an evaluation. Based on this, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Many patients notice improvements in their sleep quality and daytime alertness shortly after starting treatment, but individual results may vary.
Many insurance plans cover sleep apnea treatments, including oral appliances and CPAP therapy. We recommend checking with your provider for specific coverage details.
Following your treatment plan, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to any recommendations regarding sleep hygiene can significantly improve your outcomes.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, we encourage you to contact us for a consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious health issues.
Dr. Miller is an experienced and compassionate dentist who offers comprehensive, high quality gentle dental care in his state-of-the-art practice.
22 Old Short Hills Road, Suite 206, Livingston, NJ 07039
(973) 533-0053
