Sleep Apnea Therapy
Treating Sleep Apnea
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then you might be searching for solutions for a more restful night of sleep. At our dental practice, Dr. Mohamed Ali provides patients with a variety of lifestyle treatment and dental options to help eradicate the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Some lifestyle changes we recommend:
- Sleep on your side to allow for your throat to remain open. Sleeping on your back can cause more blockage to occur, and should be avoided.
- Lose weight if you are overweight. Losing even a few pounds can decrease your sleep apnea symptoms.
- Smoking can make sleep apnea symptoms worse, in addition to being detrimental to both oral and general health. Learn how you can stop smoking at http://www.smokefree.gov.
In addition, Dr. Mohamed Ali may discuss breathing devices and oral appliances for better breathing during your sleep. These devices can decrease pauses during sleep, yield more rest, and lead to less daytime sleepiness.
CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure) – this breathing device is a common way to treat moderate to severe sleep apnea for adults. The CPAP machine uses a mask that fits over the nose and mouth, or just over the nose. The machine blows air into the throat, and the pressure from the air helps to keep the airway unobstructed during sleep.
- Oral Appliance Therapy – Dr. Ali might recommend the use of a customized oral appliance. Oral appliance therapy is similar to wearing an orthodontic appliance during the night. This device helps to keep your airways open during sleep. The oral appliance is very effective in treating mild to moderate sleep apnea. When patients have difficulties accepting their CPAP treatments, the sleep apnea oral appliance will help patients accepting their CPAP treatment by allowing airway opening to reduce the air-pressure coming from the CPAP.
To learn more information about sleep apnea and how it can be treated, contact our office. We will answer all of your questions about the treatments we provide and make your sleep and health a priority.
