Sleep Apnea Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Snoring a little or only on occasion is a very common problem for many people. In fact, it is estimated that more than 80 million people in North America snore while sleeping. While this can only be a minor nuisance for some, it can also be a sign of other major health complications such as a chronic snoring problem or obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring can impact not only your own quality of sleep but also the sleep of your loved ones. Thankfully, at Earwood Dentistry, we have the tools and expertise to help treat chronic snoring and sleep apnea.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring can be the result of a variety of factors, from biology and genetics to lifestyle choices. Typically, snoring is caused by the soft tissues in your throat and mouth that become overly relaxed, partially blocking the airway. This decreases the amount of space for air to pass through unobstructed. Because of this, when you breathe in your sleep, the air moves over these soft tissues, causing a vibration that creates the sound we refer to as snoring.
Some individuals naturally have these more relaxed tissues or are predisposed to snoring due to their face shape or status as a biological male or post-menopausal female, but other factors can also increase your risk of snoring, in the short and long term. These causes include:
- Excess body weight
- Alcohol consumption, especially before sleep
- Certain sleep aides or sedatives
- Allergies or the Common cold
- Sleeping on your back
- Smoking
- Age
- Hormonal balances
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Find Relief from Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Snoring happens when relaxed throat tissues vibrate, partially blocking airflow. Unlike snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) involves complete airway blockage, leading to oxygen deprivation and gasping. Loud, chronic snoring is a key OSA symptom, but not everyone who snores has OSA. We'll assess your snoring, refer you to a sleep doctor if needed, and provide mandibular advancement devices when appropriate.
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See If Treatment Is For You
If you’re struggling with sleep and snoring issues, we’re here for you. With a complimentary sleep apnea consultation at Earwood Dentistry, our team can guide you through your options and answer any questions, so you can feel confident about your care.
Ask Questions
Get Answers
Outline Tailored Treatment Plan
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Snoring? A mandibular advancement device (MAD) can help by gently repositioning your jaw, opening your airway for better breathing. If tongue placement is a factor, we have other options. MADs are comfortable, allow for mouth breathing, and can even help with allergy-related snoring. Some initial jaw stiffness is normal, but temporary.
The Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep Better, Feel Better
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to poor-quality sleep, leaving you feeling irritable, unfocused, or even drowsy behind the wheel. With the right treatment, you’ll enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep and wake up refreshed after just 7-8 hours of sleep.
Protect Your Health
Sleep apnea treatment can lower your risk of serious health conditions like headaches, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and more. By breathing freely throughout the night, you’re giving your body the rest it needs to heal and recharge from the day.
Boost Your Energy
With sleep apnea treatment, you’ll experience more energy and tackle your day with ease. It’ll become easier to stay active, exercise, and even lose weight. Plus, proper treatment can help restore your libido and improve intimacy, as sleep apnea is often linked to reduced sex drive.
Network of Local Specialists
We work with a network of local providers, including pulmonologists, cardiologists, and ENT (ear, nose & throat) specialists, to help treat and diagnose patients with sleep apnea.
CPAP vs. MAD for Sleep Apnea
CPAP machines are a common sleep apnea treatment, but many patients find them difficult to use consistently. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) offer a comfortable, effective alternative. Studies show MADs are often used more frequently and for longer periods than CPAP, leading to improved quality of life for many patients. Both options effectively reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process
Sleep Test And Diagnosis
The first step is seeing a sleep specialist for a diagnosis. If you’ve already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, we will begin with a consultation to discuss your concerns and outline a proposed treatment plan.
Treatment Discussion
Treatment options vary based on the severity of your sleep apnea. For mild cases, a custom retainer may be all that’s needed. More severe cases may require solutions like a CPAP machine or even oral surgery to remove excess tissue. Your sleep specialist will guide you through the best treatment for your needs.
Partnering with Your Dentist
If your treatment involves a retainer, orthodontics, or surgery, our team is here to assist. We’ll collaborate with your sleep specialist to ensure you receive the best care and support for managing your sleep apnea effectively.
FaQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
