Frequently Asked Questions
OSA is a condition where the soft tissues in the back of the throat end up collapsing and partially or completely block the throat. This prevents air from getting to the lungs and can severely disrupt sleep. Symptoms include snoring, restless nights, drowsiness throughout the day and bouts of insomnia.
If you have very large tonsils, a larger-than-average neck size or weak muscles that keep the airways open, you may experience a blockage in the throat while sleeping. This can cause very loud snoring or leave you gasping for air.
Neglecting sleep apnea treatment can increase your risk of a heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, fatigue-related accidents and affect your quality of life. If you are experiencing any OSA symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with our sleep apnea dentist right away.
You may have several sleep apnea episodes throughout the night depending on the severity of your condition. As much as 10 seconds can pass where there is no oxygen going to the brain. At this point, you may gasp for air or wake up briefly choking.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy can be helpful for restoring proper breathing patterns. It involves wearing a mask connected to a device that increases air pressure in the throat so the airways do not collapse. You may be advised to use the CPAP machine every night to help you sleep soundly.
Some people develop CPAP intolerance where they may be allergic to the materials used to make the mask or find it extremely uncomfortable to use the device each night. Your sleep apnea dentist and other medical professionals may explore alternatives, such as lifestyle modifications or fitting you for an oral device.
Your Initial Consultation Includes:
• Detailed sleep apnea questionnaire
• Examination
• Review of risk factors
• Rhinometer and pharyngometer testing
• Introduction to Watermark ARES™
Learn more about sleep apnea treatment options and symptoms by calling our sleep apnea dentist for your consultation.