Sleep Apnea Treatments

One of the problems associated with sleep apnea is snoring, but beyond that, sleep apnea can have a serious impact on your overall health. If you or someone in your home is having problems with snoring, our dentist, Dr. Michael T. Smith, will be happy to see you to discuss sleep apnea treatments.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, disrupting normal breathing patterns. This can lead to poor sleep quality, loud snoring, and daytime fatigue, among other effects. For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, or those who have difficulty tolerating a CPAP machine, a custom oral appliance may help. The appliance is worn during sleep and works by gently repositioning the jaw to help keep the airway more open.

Signs of Sleep Apnea

• Loud, frequent snoring
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Morning headaches
• Excessive daytime tiredness or fatigue

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

• Comfortable alternative: Many patients find an oral appliance easier to tolerate than a CPAP mask.
• Portable: A custom oral appliance is small, requires no electricity, and is easy to travel with.
• Custom fit: Your appliance is made for your mouth, and Dr. Smith checks its fit and makes adjustments as needed.

Once your physician has confirmed a sleep apnea diagnosis, Dr. Smith takes an impression or digital scan of your teeth to design an appliance tailored to your mouth, then checks the fit and makes any needed adjustments. He coordinates with your physician or sleep specialist throughout treatment to help confirm the appliance is working as intended.

Call Holladay Smiles at 801-278-4431 to discuss sleep apnea treatment options with Dr. Smith.