Sleep well, live well
What is sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea arises when the soft tissues in the back of the throat completely close off the airway so that air cannot flow into the lungs. This airway blockage can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the brain and body. When this happens, the brain alerts the muscles in the airway to unblock the air passage. As this occurs, a loud gasp or snore is heard, and breathing begins again. This process of blocking and unblocking the airway causes significant disruption in sleep.
Could I have sleep apnea?
These questions below may help determine if you are at risk for sleep apnea or if a sleep study may be needed:
Do you snore loudly?
Do you often feel tired, fatigued, or sleepy during the daytime?
Has anyone observed you stop breathing during sleep?
Do you have or have you been treated for high blood pressure?
Do you have a high BMI?
Is your neck circumference greater than 16 inches?
If you answered yes to 3 of more of the above questions, a consultation with our team would be a great start?
Treatment options
The CPAP Machine: Sends pressurized air into the airway, forcing it open and helping the person breathe air
The Oral Appliance: Opens the airway by repositioning the jaw, to improve the patients breathing. This is what we offer at Dreier Family Dental
How can we help someone that has been diagnosed?
We can fabricate an oral sleep apnea appliance which is a small acrylic device that fits over the upper and lower teeth. This device repositions the jaw which moves the base of the tongue forward, opens the airway, improves breathing, and effectively treats snoring & OSA.
Wondering which treatment options are covered by your medical insurance? While insurance plans vary and have different deductibles, restrictions, & limitations, chances are good that your treatment is eligible for insurance benefits. Our office is committed to helping you understand your insurance benefits and limitations as well as payment options. We can help you determine your total out of pocket expences. Some medical insurnace plans are more restrictive.
Testimonials:
“It’s amazing how a good nights’ sleep can change your life! I didn’t realize how tired I was from poor quality & interrupted sleep until I got the oral appliance. Even on those nights where I can’t get a full 7 hours, my sleep is high quality. I work in a very fast-paced environment and feel I have more patience to juggle multiple last minute requests and short deadlines. I now come home with more energy to spare.” - Mary
“I’ve been remembering my dreams and I am dreaming more frequently. My snoring has decreased significantly, my wife even checks to see if I am breathing. I am waking up before my alarm clock feeling well rested. No more waking up in the middle of the night either!” - Brad