Sleep Apnea Therapy

What Is Sleep Apnea? 

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes your breathing to repeatedly stop and start throughout the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. This can lead to: 

• Loud, chronic snoring 

• Gasping or choking sounds while sleeping 

• Waking up frequently throughout the night 

• Morning headaches 

• Daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating 

If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. 

If you snore loudly, wake up tired, or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you might benefit from dental sleep apnea therapy. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your symptoms, review any sleep study results, and determine the best treatment for your needs. 

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea 

At Thrive Dental & Orthodontics, we specialize in dental solutions that can help manage obstructive sleep apnea and improve your sleep quality.  

Here’s how we can help: 

Custom Oral Appliance Therapy 

A dental sleep appliance, similar to a mouthguard, is worn at night to keep your airway open. Benefits include: 

• Prevents the collapse of soft tissues in the throat 

• Keeps your jaw in a forward position for better airflow 

• Comfortable, easy-to-use alternative to CPAP therapy 

Bite and Jaw Alignment 

Misaligned teeth and jaws can contribute to airway blockages. Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can: 

• Improve jaw position 

• Widen the airway 

• Reduce snoring and sleep disturbances 

Restorative Dental Solutions 

Missing or worn teeth can affect your bite and jaw position. Restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants can: 

• Create a more stable bite 

• Support proper jaw alignment 

• Enhance the effectiveness of other sleep apnea treatments 

Lifestyle Recommendations and At-Home Care 

In addition to dental treatments, we provide guidance on: 

• Sleep position adjustments (such as side sleeping) 

• Weight management and diet recommendations 

• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime 

Collaboration with Medical Professionals 

For patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea, we may coordinate care with your primary physician or a sleep specialist to ensure comprehensive management. 

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Therapy 

Effective sleep apnea treatment can: 

• Improve sleep quality and energy levels 

• Reduce or eliminate loud snoring 

• Lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues 

• Enhance mood, focus, and overall quality of life