What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses, or apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 times or more per hour. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway. This condition can significantly impact your health and quality of life if left untreated.

Sleep Apnea

Why is it important?

30 Million

Americans are affected by sleep apnea.

Benefits

Reduced Health Risks

Untreated sleep apnea is associated with numerous health risks, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. By addressing sleep apnea, you can significantly reduce these risks. Proper treatment helps maintain steady oxygen levels throughout the night, benefiting your cardiovascular and overall health.

Enhanced Daytime Functioning

Effective sleep apnea therapy can alleviate daytime symptoms such as excessive sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. By improving your sleep, you'll likely experience increased alertness, better work performance, and improved relationships. This can lead to a more productive and fulfilling daily life.

Improved Sleep Quality

Sleep apnea therapy can dramatically improve your sleep quality by reducing or eliminating breathing interruptions. This leads to more restful, uninterrupted sleep, helping you feel more refreshed and energized during the day. Better sleep can enhance your mood, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.

Breathe Easy, Sleep Soundly

Types of Sleep Apnea Therapy

At Valor Dental, we offer a range of sleep apnea treatments tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Oral Appliance Therapy

Custom-made oral appliances are designed to reposition your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open during sleep. These comfortable, portable devices are especially effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea and are often preferred by patients who can't tolerate CPAP.

CPAP or BiPAP

We work with a network of sleep specialists to provide patients with CPAP or BiPAP devices for those who can benefit. These devices deliver pressurized air through a mask, keeping your airway open. We can help coordinate your care with sleep medicine experts.

Lifestyle Changes

We provide guidance on lifestyle modifications that can help manage sleep apnea. This may include weight loss strategies, sleep position training, and advice on avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime. These changes can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms.

The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process

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1

Initial Consultation

We begin with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. We may use questionnaires and conduct a physical examination of your airway. If sleep apnea is suspected, we'll discuss the need for a sleep study.

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2

Diagnosis Confirmation

We work with sleep specialists to arrange a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep lab. This test monitors your sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels to confirm a sleep apnea diagnosis and determine its severity.

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3

Treatment Plan Development

Based on your diagnosis and preferences, we create a personalized treatment plan. This may involve oral appliance therapy, CPAP, or a combination of treatments. We explain each option and help you make an informed decision.

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4

Follow-up and Adjustment

Once treatment begins, we schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. We may collaborate with your sleep specialist to ensure the effectiveness of your treatment and improve your sleep quality.

FAQs

Have questions about Sleep Apnea Therapy? Find answers here.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. You might also experience mood changes, high blood pressure, or wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat.

Can sleep apnea be cured?

While sleep apnea often can't be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment. Lifestyle changes, oral appliances, or CPAP therapy can significantly reduce symptoms and improve sleep quality. In some cases, weight loss may resolve mild sleep apnea.

Still have questions?

Get in touch with us today to speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable team members.