Sleep Apnea Treatment in Houston, TX

We’re concerned about the overall health of our patients, including their sleep health. Many people suffer needlessly from dangerous sleep disruptive disorders that keep them from getting enough oxygen while sleeping. The risk of heart attack is 23 times more likely than average with a sleep disorder. In fact, 92% of stroke victims unknowingly live suffer from sleep apnea before having a stroke. Our training allows us to offer patients education and treatment surrounding sleep health in a simple, cost-effective way.

Research suggests that more than twelve million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Most cases often go undiagnosed and can lead to serious health consequences. This includes diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and traffic accidents related to drowsy driving. Dentistry serves a vital role in treating this silent epidemic. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances as primary treatment of mild to moderate OSA and patients with severe sleep apnea who can’t tolerate their CPAP.

What is OSA?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder characterized by brief interruptions while breathing and asleep due to a blockage in the airway. This occur when throat muscles, the tongue, tonsils, or the soft palate relax and block the airway, preventing you from breathing properly. The obstruction results in a severe drop in blood oxygen levels throughout the night.

OSA is typically diagnosed using a polysomnogram or a sleep study. During a sleep study, a sleep physician monitors brain activity and body system functions while a patient rests overnight at a sleep lab. The specialist evaluates the data collected to diagnose sleep disorders and recommend treatment. If prescribed by the sleep doctor, a dentist trained in sleep medicine can help treat obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. In some cases, a home sleep study may be offered instead of reporting to a sleep lab.

How is OSA Treated?

Treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea can include surgery, a CPAP or BiPAP machine, or oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances provide a minimally invasive option that’s ideal for treatment of mild to moderate OSA. A carefully calibrated appliance, like a CPAP or BiPAP, can hold the jaw in a precise and comfortable position while sleeping.

All treatment recommendations should be made in conjunction with your sleep physician. If appliance therapy is selected, it’s essential to determine the right method and positioning to precisely maintain an open airway.