Sleep Apnea
What Is Sleep Apnea?
At Androscoggin Valley Dental, we understand the impact of sleep apnea on your overall health. Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, often accompanied by loud and chronic snoring. These interruptions occur due to a partial or complete blockage of the airway, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the body. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, including providing custom-fitted dental devices that help alleviate snoring and improve your sleep quality. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find relief from snoring and sleep apnea.
Improved sleep quality
Sleep apnea treatment enhances the quality of your sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
Reduced health risks
Treating sleep apnea lowers the risk of associated health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Increased daytime alertness
By addressing sleep apnea, you can experience improved daytime alertness, concentration, and productivity.
Enhanced overall well-being
Sleep apnea treatment contributes to better overall health, mood, and quality of life, promoting a sense of well-being.
ABOUT SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT
- Diagnosis: A healthcare professional or sleep specialist conducts a sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity.
- Oral Appliances: Custom-fitted dental devices, worn during sleep, reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, effectively treating mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): In severe cases, a CPAP machine delivers a constant flow of air through a mask, preventing airway collapse during sleep.
- Surgical Interventions: In certain situations, surgical procedures may be considered to address anatomical abnormalities and improve the airflow in the airway, providing long-term relief from sleep apnea.
Q: Can a dentist treat sleep apnea?
A: Yes, dentists can provide effective treatment for sleep apnea, including custom-fitted oral appliances.
Q: How do oral appliances work for sleep apnea?
A: Oral appliances reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open during sleep and reducing symptoms of sleep apnea.
Q: Is a dental appliance as effective as a CPAP machine?
A: While CPAP is considered the gold standard, oral appliances can be highly effective, especially for mild to moderate sleep apnea cases.
Q: Are oral appliances comfortable to wear?
A: Yes, oral appliances are designed to be comfortable and non-intrusive, allowing natural movement and enabling a good night’s sleep.
Q: Do I need a prescription from a dentist for an oral appliance?
A: Yes, a dentist will evaluate your condition and provide a prescription for a custom-fitted oral appliance tailored to your specific needs.
Q: Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
A: Dentists can screen for sleep apnea and refer you to a sleep specialist for a definitive diagnosis through a sleep study.
CALL US: (603) 752-2013
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