Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. There are three main types of sleep apnea:
One of the challenges with sleep apnea is that many people who suffer from the condition are unaware they have it. Sleep apnea occurs during sleep, making it difficult for individuals to identify the symptoms themselves. However, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for:
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea, including:
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms or has the risk factors listed above, it is crucial to seek a professional evaluation. At the dental practice of Dr. Rina Singh and Dr. John Maynard, we can help identify if you have sleep apnea and provide effective treatment options to improve your sleep and overall health. Contact us to learn more.
Diagnosing sleep apnea typically requires a sleep study, also known as polysomnography, which can be conducted either in a sleep center or through a home-based test. During a sleep study, various bodily functions such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and breathing patterns are monitored to assess whether sleep apnea is present and how severe it is.
Once diagnosed, treatment plans are tailored to the specific type and severity of the sleep apnea.
There are several treatment options available for sleep apnea, ranging from lifestyle changes to advanced oral appliances or surgeries. At our practice, we focus on noninvasive and effective treatments, particularly oral appliance therapy, which is often a first-line treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
For individuals with mild sleep apnea, lifestyle changes can often reduce or eliminate symptoms. Some recommended changes include:
Oral appliance therapy involves wearing a custom-fitted device during sleep to help keep the airway open. These devices, often referred to as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), work by gently repositioning the jaw to prevent airway obstruction.
At the dental practice of Dr. Rina Singh and Dr. John Maynard, we create customized oral appliances that are comfortable and easy to wear. Patients who undergo oral appliance therapy often find it to be a convenient and effective solution for treating sleep apnea without the need for a CPAP machine.
For moderate to severe sleep apnea, a CPAP machine is often the gold standard of treatment. CPAP delivers continuous air pressure through a mask that you wear while sleeping, ensuring that your airway remains open. However, some patients find CPAP machines cumbersome or uncomfortable, which is why oral appliances are often recommended for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat sleep apnea. This can involve removing excess tissue in the throat, repositioning the jaw, or correcting structural abnormalities in the nose or throat. Surgery is typically considered only when other treatments have not been effective.
Effective treatment of sleep apnea can drastically improve both the quality of life and long-term health. Benefits of treatment include:
Untreated sleep apnea can have significant implications for overall health. It is not just about poor sleep — it can lead to a range of serious medical conditions:
Because sleep apnea is connected to so many other health conditions, treating it can improve not only sleep but overall health and longevity.
Sleep apnea is a serious but treatable condition. By addressing sleep apnea early, you can improve your sleep quality, reduce health risks, and enhance your overall well-being. At our dental office in Camp Hill, PA, we offer tailored solutions to help patients manage their sleep apnea effectively.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or have already been diagnosed and are seeking treatment, contact our office to schedule a consultation. We are here to provide you with the best treatment options to ensure restful sleep and a healthier life.
Transform your smile and boost your oral health with expert care from Rina Singh DDS! Call us today at (717) 761-0283 or visit our office at 1902 Market St, Camp Hill, PA, to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile!
1902 Market St,
Camp Hill, PA 17011
MON - WED8:30 am - 5:30 pm
THU7:30 am - 2:30 pm
FRIBy appointments only
SAT - SUNClosed
1902 Market St,
Camp Hill, PA, 17011
Phone: (717) 761-0283