Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep Apnea Treatment Using An Oral Appliance

What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep Apnea is a condition in which you stop breathing during the middle of the night. Clinically, you are considered to have Sleep Apnea if breathing stops for at least ten seconds and five times an hour. The most common type of Sleep Apnea is a narrowing of the airflow channels at night resulting from the relaxation of the muscles that keep the channels open and the shifting of weight in the prone position. This causes what is known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

What causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
In adults there are several causes for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. One cause of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is anatomy of the jaw and throat. Some people have airways that are narrower, jaws that are smaller, or tongues that are larger than average and any one of these factors can be enough to restrict the airflow to the lungs. Another is obesity. Excess fat stored in the neck can constrict the throat and reduce airflow to the lungs. Jaws that are out of alignment as a result of TMD can also restrict airflow. There can be a genetic predisposition to get sleep apnea, it may run in families. In addition, sleeping pills or alcohol, which both relax the muscles that hold the airway open, can increase your likelihood of suffering from apnea.

Is there a relationship between Snoring and Sleep Apnea?
Yes, possibly. Snoring is the sound of soft tissues vibrating as a result of restricted airflow. Although snoring may not be the result of significant airflow restriction, about 70% of people who have sleep apnea also snore.

How can Sleep Apnea be treated?
The treatment for Sleep Apnea depends on the precise cause. In Obstructive Sleep Apnea, you must address the factors responsible for the restriction of airflow. If your anatomy is the primary cause, there are many options available, ranging from the simple to the severe:

Sleeping with an oral appliance that keeps the airways open

Sleeping with a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) mask

Surgical modification of the airway

Obviously, the treatment option that is best for you depends on you. CPAP machines awkward, noisy and uncomfortable, and surgery, well its surgery. However, most cases can be treated without resorting to these more drastic options. If you are suffering from Sleep Apnea please contact Sleep Apnea Dentist Dr. Loye at Carmel Creek Dental to set up your Sleep Apnea treatment consultation. Dr. Loye will examine your airway and determine the cause of your apnea before recommending the best treatment. Dr Loye will work with your physicians to get you the best treatment possible.

Call or email us for information and to have a consultation with Dr Loye

The Center for Alternative CPAP Treatment
James Loye DDS
858-847-9982
3830 Valley Centre Dr #702
San Diego CA 92130