How a dentist can help with obstructive sleep apnea treatment

Dr. Stanley Ngo of SK2 Dental in Dallas, Texas, is a reliable and experienced dentist who offers a selection of services to new and returning patients in his practice. This includes the treatment of conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea
Video Transcript
Do you snore excessively? Do you suffer from daytime fatigue? Do you awake during the night with shortness of breath? You may suffer from the life-threatening sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. About 1 in every 15 Americans suffer from sleep apnea and it is a problem that many don’t even realize they might have. But what does this have to do with dentistry? Because sleep apnea is caused by an airway obstruction, the disorder can be treated through the mouth. The Thorton adjustable positioner, or Tap appliance is one of the more popular ways to treat sleep apnea. When the jawbone yes lax, the tongue and soft tissue obstruct the airway. The tap appliance advances the jaw bone, allowing the air to flow freely and making sleep more restful throughout the night. If you think you might suffer from sleep apnea, talk to your dentist today about possible treatment options.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition in which the breathing passages in the mouth and nose become blocked, preventing a person from getting enough air while they sleep. This can cause snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and other symptoms associated with the inability to get the deep, restorative sleep needed to feel one’s best every day. Treatment is strongly encouraged to allow the patient to get the rest they need to function at their best and improve their quality of life.

How can a dentist help with obstructive sleep apnea?

If you have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea from your primary care physician or a sleep specialist, you may have been educated on using a CPAP machine to manage the condition. However, this cumbersome device can be uncomfortable to sleep with, causing many patients to stop treatment. Regardless, Dr. Ngo can assist with an alternative treatment known as oral appliance therapy.

Oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea works by repositioning the lower jaw to keep the airway open during sleep, eliminating the blockage of air. Dr. Ngo will design a custom device that fits in the mouth and gently holds your mandible forward while sleeping. This can be adjusted as needed over time to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness of treatment.

How do I learn more about treating obstructive sleep apnea with oral devices?

If you have been diagnosed with OSA and want to learn more about OSA and snoring treatment using oral appliance therapy, contact Dr. Stanley Ngo and his team at SK2 Dental in Dallas, TX. The office is conveniently located at 9780 Walnut St Suite 188, and can be reached for an appointment by calling (469) 331-5444. We are open to new and returning patients and families seeking comprehensive dental care with an experienced team of professionals.