If you struggle with loud snoring, frequent fatigue, or waking up gasping for air, you could be suffering from sleep apnea. At Lans Family Dentistry, we offer non-invasive solutions to help manage sleep apnea and improve your quality of life. A restful night’s sleep is essential to your overall health, and we are here to help you find relief.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the night. These pauses in breathing can last for several seconds and often occur hundreds of times during sleep, reducing oxygen flow to the body and brain.
The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which happens when the soft tissues in the throat collapse and block the airway. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and increased risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Recognizing the signs of sleep apnea is the first step toward getting the treatment you need. Common symptoms include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Choking or gasping during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Irritability or mood changes
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health complications and restore better sleep.
Dental Solutions for Sleep Apnea
While severe cases of sleep apnea may require CPAP therapy or surgical intervention, many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea can benefit from a more comfortable solution: oral appliance therapy.
At Lans Family Dentistry, we offer custom-made oral appliances designed to keep your airway open during sleep. These small, comfortable devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway collapse, allowing for uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
Benefits of oral appliance therapy include:
- Comfortable, custom fit
- Non-invasive and easy to use
- Quiet—no masks, tubes, or machines
- Portable for travel
- Often covered by medical insurance for sleep apnea treatment
Many patients find oral appliances to be a more convenient and well-tolerated alternative to CPAP therapy, especially for those who have difficulty adjusting to a CPAP machine.
What to Expect During Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, our process with a consultation. We will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and work in collaboration with your physician or sleep specialist if necessary.
If oral appliance therapy is recommended, we will take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a custom device tailored to your unique anatomy. Once your appliance is ready, we will ensure a proper fit and provide instructions on how to use and care for it.
Follow-up visits allow us to monitor your progress, make any needed adjustments, and ensure your appliance continues to fit and function effectively over time.
Why Treating Sleep Apnea Matters
Sleep apnea affects more than just your sleep—it impacts your entire body. Treating sleep apnea can lead to:
- Improved daytime alertness and energy
- Lowered risk of heart disease and stroke
- Better blood pressure control
- Improved mood and memory
- Healthier metabolism and weight management
By managing sleep apnea, you are investing in your overall health and long-term well-being.
Sleep Better, Live Better with Lans Family Dentistry
We’re committed to helping patients achieve better sleep and better health. If you suspect sleep apnea is affecting your life, do not wait to seek help. Our comfortable, effective dental solutions can help you breathe easier and enjoy the restful sleep you deserve.