Sleep Apnea

Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Irritability
• Morning headache
• Waking up with a dry mouth
• Feeling sleepy throughout the day

If you have sleep apnea, you might also find it difficult to pay attention or stay on task at work.

The different types of sleep apnea include:

Obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the tissues at the back of your throat relax while you’re sleeping. This blocks your airways, causing you to snore or gasp for air during the night. 

Central sleep apnea

Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain stops sending messages to the muscles that control your breathing. It’s less common than OSA but just as serious.

Complex sleep apnea

Complex sleep apnea occurs when you have OSA and central sleep apnea. Complex sleep apnea is also known as treatment-emergent sleep apnea.

Only a medical doctor can diagnose sleep apnea. If you’ve received a diagnosis from your primary care physician, the team at Chauvin Family Dentistry can develop a custom treatment plan that minimizes symptoms and helps you sleep better.

Treatment of sleep apnea depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, the team at Chauvin Family Dentistry recommends conservative, non-surgical forms of care, including:

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)

CPAP is a nasal mask that you wear during sleep. The mask delivers air directly to your lungs, keeping your airways open throughout the night. 

Custom oral appliances

If you have a mild case of sleep apnea, the team might recommend a custom oral appliance. A custom oral appliance is a mouthpiece that repositions your tongue and pushes your lower jaw forward. This opens up your airways, allowing you to breathe comfortably.

To receive all-inclusive care for sleep apnea, schedule an appointment at Chauvin Family Dentistry. Call the nearest office, or book an appointment online today.