Sleep Apnea Treatment in Victoria, TX | Schaar Dental Wellness
.avif)
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition marked by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, caused by blockages in the airway that can last several seconds and occur multiple times throughout the night. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea, happens when the soft tissues in the throat collapse and block airflow. At Schaar Dental Wellness in Victoria, TX, we offer custom treatment options to help patients manage sleep apnea and get the restful sleep they need.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Gasping or choking sensations during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime fatigue or drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
A formal diagnosis from a sleep specialist can confirm whether these symptoms are related to sleep apnea.
Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, along with daytime drowsiness that increases the risk of accidents. Sleep apnea has also been linked to broader health concerns, including the connection between oral health and heart health. Addressing sleep apnea promptly can help protect both your sleep quality and your overall health.
Oral Appliance Therapy: A CPAP Alternative
At Schaar Dental Wellness, we specialize in oral appliance therapy, a non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines. A custom-made oral appliance is worn during sleep to gently reposition the jaw and keep the airway open, offering a quieter and often more comfortable option than a CPAP machine. Dr. Taylor Schaar has advanced training in oral appliance therapy and works collaboratively with sleep specialists to ensure a coordinated, effective treatment plan. To learn more about how this approach compares to CPAP, read can a dentist treat sleep apnea without CPAP.
The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process
- Symptom Review and Diagnosis: We review your symptoms and medical history, and may collaborate with your sleep physician for a formal diagnosis.
- Custom Impressions: Precise impressions of your teeth are taken to create an oral appliance tailored to your anatomy.
- Appliance Fitting and Adjustment: Your appliance is fitted and adjusted for optimal comfort and effectiveness in keeping your airway open during sleep.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular checkups allow us to monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
FAQs About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What is the difference between sleep apnea and snoring?
Snoring is caused by vibrating tissue in the airway, while sleep apnea involves actual pauses in breathing. Someone can snore without having sleep apnea, but sleep apnea is often accompanied by loud snoring.
Can a dentist really treat sleep apnea?
Yes. Dentists with training in sleep medicine can provide custom oral appliances that reposition the jaw to keep the airway open, offering an effective, non-invasive treatment option. Read more in how dental treatment can help you sleep better.
Is oral appliance therapy as effective as CPAP?
Oral appliance therapy is highly effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. For severe cases, a sleep physician may recommend CPAP or a combination of treatments.
How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
Common signs include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, and persistent daytime fatigue. A sleep specialist can confirm a diagnosis through a sleep study.
Will my dental insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?
Coverage varies by plan and is sometimes handled through medical insurance rather than dental insurance. Our team can help you understand your options during a consultation.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation in Victoria, TX
If you are ready to explore a comfortable alternative to CPAP, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at Schaar Dental Wellness, or call us at (361) 454-5801.