SLEEP APNEA AND SNORE GUARD THERAPY
Dentist in Marina del Rey - 30+ Years Tradition of Excellence
Transform Your Sleep. Transform Your Life.
Why Choose Yeo Family Dental Group for sleep apnea treatment?
Did you know that people with sleep apnea can stop breathing for roughly 10-30 seconds at a time while they are sleeping? This can happen 5 to 30 or more times per hour and hundreds of times throughout the night! Sleep apnea is a common problem that affects countless individuals. Chronic shallow breathing and air passage blockage can disrupt sleep patterns and create unnecessary discomfort. At Yeo Family Dental Group, we offer sleep apnea and snoring solutions for patients in Marina del Rey, Playa Vista, Venice, Culver City, Playa del Rey, and beyond.
Sleep Apnea Treatment at a Glance
- Oral appliances like snore guards provide an effective alternative to CPAP machines.
- For people with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- Better comfort and sleep quality.
- Benefits for sleep apnea and whole-body health.
Sleep Apnea Often Goes Undiagnosed
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Many cases of sleep apnea remain undiagnosed because the disorder may not be easily detected during regular visits with your doctor. Most often, it is one’s partner that notices it first. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form, but it can manifest in many different conditions.
Some of the common signs and symptoms associated with sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping and choking while you sleep
- Struggling with sleepiness during the day
- Falling asleep quickly during brief periods of inactivity
- Migraines, headaches, and head pains in the morning
- Feeling as if you have not had enough sleep no matter how early you went to bed
Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to an increased risk of developing depression, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Beyond CPAP
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
One of the best-known and least favorite, treatment options is a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, which you wear while sleeping. A CPAP machine holds the airway open to ensure air flows properly throughout the night. Some, if not most, sleep apnea patients find these machines noisy and uncomfortable. In some severe cases, a surgical solution can be explored.
There are several effective CPAP alternatives:
- Positional therapy
- Surgery
- Dental (oral) appliances
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Some of the most popular oral appliances include snore guards. These are FDA-listed mouthpieces suitable for treating sleep apnea and snoring overnight. These appliances are at their most effective for mild to moderate cases of snoring. While oral appliances can be found in a number of stores and online outlets, your doctor can inform you about which appliance is appropriate for your case.
If you or your loved one are kept up all night by incessant snoring, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. Make a consultation appointment at Yeo Family Dental Group Care today to learn more about sleep apnea and snore guard therapy and to see if oral appliances are right for you!
Sleep in Comfort
What are the benefits of oral appliances for sleep apnea?
Oral appliances offer several advantages over traditional CPAP machines for treating sleep apnea:
- Increased Comfort: Many people find oral appliances for sleep apnea more comfortable and less disruptive to sleep than wearing a mask.
- Portability: Dental appliances are compact and travel-friendly, eliminating the need for bulky equipment.
- Silent Operation: Unlike CPAP machines, dental appliances don't make noise, creating a quieter sleep experience.
- Easier Compliance: Sleep apnea patients often find dental appliances easier to adjust to and use consistently throughout the night.
- Reduced Side Effects: A CPAP machine can cause dry mouth, nasal congestion, and skin irritation. Oral appliances reduce or eliminate these side effects.
For Mild to Moderate Sleep Apnea
Am I a candidate for sleep apnea treatment with a dental appliance?
Oral appliances are an excellent choice for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea who have trouble tolerating a CPAP machine. While CPAP is often considered to be the gold standard treatment for sleep apnea, many people experience discomfort, claustrophobia, or leaks when using the machine. An oral appliance offers a more comfortable alternative, helping you enjoy better sleep.
Ideal candidates for oral sleep apnea appliances should have good oral health, a healthy jaw joint, and sufficient teeth to support the appliance. Additionally, you must be committed to wearing the oral appliance consistently each night.
Who should not use an oral appliance for sleep apnea?
Oral appliances are not typically recommended for individuals with severe or central sleep apnea. Our dentists will collaborate with the other members of your medical team to determine the severity of your sleep apnea and recommend the most effective treatment.
Better Health and Quality of Life
Sleep Apnea Treatment Results
Treating sleep apnea with a dental appliance can yield significant improvements in sleep quality and overall health. Many patients experience a reduction in the frequency and severity of apnea episodes, leading to more restful and uninterrupted sleep. This treatment is particularly effective for those with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A dental appliance can significantly decrease snoring and other sleep disruptions by repositioning the jaw and keeping the airway open. Patients often report feeling more refreshed and alert during the day, with a notable improvement in their quality of life.
Successful sleep apnea treatment with a dental appliance has far-reaching impacts on overall health, reducing the risk of associated health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Improved sleep quality can also enhance cognitive function, mood, and mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Furthermore, treating sleep apnea can lead to better weight management. Overall, addressing sleep apnea with a dental appliance alleviates the immediate symptoms and promotes long-term health and well-being.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
The appliance repositions the lower jaw, tongue, and soft tissues to maintain an open airway. This helps to prevent the airway from collapsing and obstructing breathing during sleep.
Dental appliances can be highly effective for many people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Most people find dental appliances comfortable after a short adjustment period, especially compared to a sleep apnea mask. Your dental appliance will be custom-made to fit your mouth, which enhances comfort and effectiveness.
Common side effects may include jaw discomfort, tooth movement, dry mouth, and excessive salivation. These side effects are usually temporary and can often be managed with adjustments to the appliance.
Proper care involves regular cleaning with a toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, or mild soap. It's also important to follow the specific care instructions provided by your dentist at Yeo Family Dental Group.
With proper care, a dental appliance can last several years. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure the appliance fits well and functions effectively.
The answer depends on the specifics of your dental work. Dr. Yeo or Dr. Jamie can evaluate your situation and determine if a dental appliance is a suitable option for you.
Coverage for dental appliances varies by insurance plan. Some medical insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, especially if the appliance is prescribed to treat sleep apnea. It's best to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details. Our office team can help you verify coverage and provide any necessary documentation.
