Sleep Dentistry

Many people of different race, age, and, sex can suffer from OSA. However, there are certain things that can put a person at higher risk of developing OSA. These include being:

• Male
• Obese
• Over age 40
• Family History
• Large Tongue
• Large Tonsils
• Allergies or Sinus Problems
• Large Neck Size

Unfortunately, even if a person doesn’t fit into any of the risk factor categories, they can still develop OSA. OSA is very common and affects more than 18 million Americans. If a person notices they wake from sleep choking or gasping for breath, are tired during the day, or they snore loudly during the night, they may have OSA. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to see a professional for a diagnosis and treatment.

A physician needs to diagnose OSA. If a person believes they suffer from OSA, the physician will have the patient participate in an overnight sleep study called a Polysomnogram (PSG). A diagnosis is based on the results of that overnight sleep study. During the sleep study a person’s brain waves, heart beat, breathing, as well as arm and leg movements are charted and recorded. Based on the information provided by the sleep study, the physician will make his or her diagnosis.

If OSA is the diagnosis given by the physician there are several behavioral therapies a person can try to help. Some of these include:

• Lose Weight
• Limit Alcohol Consumption
• Quit Smoking
• Sleep on side

If the behavioral therapies do not work there are medical and dental treatments that can also be tried. These include oral appliance therapy (OAT), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and upper-airway surgery.

Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is a non-invasive solution to OSA. At Prescott Dental Arts we offer oral appliances that can be worn in the mouth to treat sleep apnea and snoring problems. These appliances are worn at night and fit similar to retainers, night guards, or sports mouth guards.

They work by maintaining an open and unobstructed airway. The oral appliance is made to fit tightly in the patient’s mouth and is designed to work for each individual’s unique situation. A dentist trained in dental sleep medicine will be familiar with the various designs of each appliance and will determine which one best suits each patient’s specific needs.

CPAP therapy uses a machine to help those who suffer from OSA. The machine sits next to a person’s bed and generates pressurized air. A mask is fitted to a person’s face and covers the nose or mouth or both depending on the mask. The CPAP machine works by forcing pressurized air into the airway, expanding it and forcing it open.

If a person cannot tolerate an appliance or cpap mask they may opt to have a surgical procedure done. This surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. What procedure is needed will be decided by the oral surgeon and depend on the patients specific needs.

If someone believes they may be suffering from OSA contact your Prescott Dentist today for a consultation. Our experienced team in Prescott AZ is trained in the latest procedures and treatments and will work to find the best solution for each patient.