Are you unhappy with your CPAP machine?  Oral appliance therapy is an excellent alternative to treat your sleep apnea and help you rest better at night.  If you are CPAP intolerant, or simply sick of your CPAP device, we invite you to call our practice to learn more about our treatments for sleep apnea in Vineland, Berlin, Brigantine-Atlantic City, Egg Harbor, Hammonton, Stratford, Millville, Mays Landing, Mullica Hill and Monroe, New Jersey, and to schedule your consultation with our caring dentists.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interruptions and pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions and pauses may occur multiple times throughout the night, and can cause individuals with this condition to wake up frequently, sometimes without even registering that they have awakened. The more severe form of this disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, is caused by obstructions in the airway, such as collapsed tissues or the tongue rolling back in the throat. When untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can cause strain on the heart and contribute to other medical problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and weight gain. It can also increase the risk of a car accident due to driver fatigue.
Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme daytime drowsiness
- Irritability and personality changes
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Snoring
- Frequent headaches in the morning
- Waking with a very dry or sore throat
If you notice these symptoms, we recommend that you speak with your dentist as well as your doctor or a sleep physician. You may be asked to participate in a sleep study to ensure a correct diagnosis.
Our dentists offer oral appliances to help treat your sleep apnea and improve your overall health. Oral appliances work to keep your airway open while you sleep by preventing the tongue from blocking the air passage or holding your jaw in a position that prevents airway blockages while you are asleep.
Sleep studies and oral appliances are covered by most dental insurance plans. You should be able to get your appliance with little or no cost to you.
For more information about sleep apnea treatment and to make your appointment with our experienced dentists, please contact our practice today.
Test Yourself!
Are you concerned that you have sleep apnea? You can test yourself using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale to determine if you should seek treatment from a doctor: