Snoring & Sleep Apnea

WHAT IS OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA?

Snoring is a warning sign that normal breathing is not happening.  One out of every two Americans snore and it can become more serious as progression leads to obstructive sleep apnea – (a frequent cessation of breathing during sleep).   When a sleep apnea sufferer stops breathing for at least 10 seconds up to 30 times or more a night, the snoring has become sleep apnea.  Sometimes this condition can be life threatening, so it is important that you be screened by a trained sleep dentist.  He may also suggest you have a sleep study done – known as a polysomnogram which evaluates the airway and breathing patterns.  This test guides the dentist in his approach to conservative treatment. 

CAUSES  

Some of the conditions that can lead to snoring include:
 

DIAGNOSTICS

Patients are thoroughly examined for TMJ and a thorough history is taken as well as a sleep questionnaire.  They are also checked for other common symptoms of sleep apnea like morning headaches, dry mouth and throat, excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden short-of-breath awakenings, choking or gasping and any lost interest in sex.  Testing may include:

TREATMENT

Once a sleep study confirms that sleep apnea is present, then, with a high degree of accuracy, the proper treatment procedures can be found.  For simple non-threatening snoring, we use an anti-snoring, intra-oral device to control the problem.  If, however, it is determined that the patient is suffering from a mild to moderate condition of obstructive sleep apnea, further analysis of the bite is needed.  This treatment employs a highly specific type of intra-oral appliance.  These appliances have been proven to be effective in controlling this problem.  

The oral appliance approach is a conservative treatment to traditional treatment of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure with the use of an air compressor and mask) and surgery.  Appliances are light and easy to wear.  Its purpose is to move the lower jaw forward, causing a positive change in tongue position that opens the airway.  Worn during sleep, it helps prevent the airway from collapsing by creating extra airway space.  

We are able to conservatively and successfully treat those suffering with snoring or sleep apnea in most cases.  When poor sleep interferes with your daily activities of reading, watching television, driving or operating equipment, discuss it with Dr. Crout.   

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