Sleep apnea can be a serious health concern that may affect the quality of your life if left untreated. For some patients, snoring while sleeping may not have any effect on their quality of sleep or lifestyle. Some patients may even be able to remedy snoring by changing their lifestyle or sleeping habits. For other patients, snoring may be an indication of a more serious health concern called sleep apnea.
The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Patients who have developed sleep apnea can repeatedly stop and start breathing while sleeping. OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat collapse and block the airway, making it more difficult for patients to get the necessary amount of oxygen.
At Sudbury Dental Arts we offer effective solutions for patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Gauthier and our dental care team can work with you to determine the best solution for you.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Sudbury, MA
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Tiredness throughout the day
- Loud snoring
- Waking up gasping or choking
- A headache or a migraine, especially in the morning
- Difficulty concentrating
- Waking up with a sore or dry throat
Studies have shown that patients with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, and diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may want to schedule a visit to Sudbury Dental Arts. Dr. Gauthier and our dental associates can help find the right solution for your needs and help you achieve better sleep.
Oral Appliance Therapy For Sleep Apnea
The most common form of treatment for OSA is a continuous positive airway pressure machine, also known as a CPAP. Most people are not happy with this treatment option since it involves wearing a mask while sleeping. Sudbury, MA dentist Dr. Gauthier offers an alternative comfortable, and effective solution for patients with sleep apnea. Some patients may benefit from oral appliance sleep apnea therapy. Unlike the CPAP machine, a device used to treat sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy offers a discrete, comfortable, and effective solution to reduce the effects of sleep apnea. An oral appliance is also cost-effective, less intrusive, and easier to care for. Dr. Gauthier will also recommend lifestyle changes to help reduce snoring and improve sleeping quality.
An oral appliance for sleep apnea is an innovative piece of dental technology that allows patients to continuously breath throughout the evening. The device is similar to a sports mouthguard. Dr. Gauthier will fit you for SomnoDent®, an effective oral appliance device. SomnoDent can be used to comfortably reposition the jaw and prevent the tongue from collapsing, which will allow air to flow freely. If worn properly, you will experience a full night of sleep and wake up feeling well-rested.
Schedule A Consultation
To learn more about your treatment options for sleep apnea, visit Sudbury Dental Arts. If you would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call or request an appointment online today.
New Patients:
(978) 218-2580
Current Patients:
(978) 369-2500
