Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea is a common chronic disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. Pauses in breathing can last from seconds to minutes, and occur 30 times or more per hour. This disrupts sleep and can also increase the risk of conditions like heart failure, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and irregular heartbeat.

Snoring and breathing interruptions are common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea. To diagnose the disorder and determine its severity, your doctor may conduct a sleep study.

For mild and moderate sleep apnea, many patients find success through using a dental appliance similar to a night guard or orthodontic retainer. This appliance is designed to keep the tongue and tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing during sleep, so that the patient can breathe without interruptions. Oral appliances for sleep apnea are custom-fitted and easy to wear, and can be very effective in providing symptom relief.