Here at Smiles R Us, we are committed to helping you enjoy a healthier overall quality of life. Our experienced dentists and team provide sleep apnea treatment to allow you to breathe easily at night and get the rest you need. We invite you to contact us at 210-694-4999 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Amogh Bhalerao or Dr. Gayatri Jadhav and learn more about sleep apnea treatment in San Antonio, Texas.
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening sleep disorder that requires prompt medical attention. It is characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, which can last from several seconds to minutes and occur frequently throughout the night. This disruption in breathing leads to an imbalance between carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the bloodstream, triggering the brain to send signals to wake up and restart the breathing process. However, many individuals with sleep apnea may not fully awaken during these episodes, leaving the condition undiagnosed.
There are two main types of sleep apnea: central sleep apnea, caused by the brain’s failure to send breathing signals, and obstructive sleep apnea, resulting from blocked airways despite attempts to breathe. Obstructive sleep apnea is more common and can be effectively treated our dentists.
The importance of seeking treatment for sleep apnea cannot be overstated, as this condition can lead to severe health complications. During sleep apnea episodes the airway may collapse, preventing oxygen from entering the lungs and causing the person to wake up repeatedly throughout the night. This can strain the heart and lead to serious heart-related conditions.
Sleep apnea treatment varies depending on the individual’s diagnosis and health status. Our dentists and team can conduct tests to diagnose the condition accurately, and may work with your medical or sleep physician to ensure the most accurate results possible. To help manage your condition we may recommend lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and tranquilizers, or using dental devices to keep the airway open during sleep. These oral appliances are one of the most comfortable and convenient options for managing sleep apnea, and are highly successful in treating mild to moderate sleep apnea. They work by gently repositioning the lower jaw to prevent the tongue from blocking the air passage and are more comfortable than traditional masks.
In some cases, surgery may be a more permanent solution, where the lower jaw is sectioned to pull the tongue’s bone forward. This procedure has a high success rate and is relatively straightforward to perform.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it is essential to reach out to a dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Addressing sleep apnea can significantly improve your overall health and wellbeing. Give us a call today for more details and to schedule your personal consultation!