Sleep Apnea Treatment in Santa Monica

Sleep apnea therapy helps people who have trouble breathing while they sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when throat muscles relax too much, blocking the airway. One common treatment is using a CPAP machine, which blows air to keep the airway open. But some people find CPAP masks uncomfortable.

For mild to moderate cases, dental devices can be an alternative. These custom-made mouthpieces adjust the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open and are more comfortable than CPAP machines.

Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s needs. The goal is to reduce symptoms like loud snoring, morning headaches, and daytime fatigue, improving sleep and overall health.

If you experience symptoms like loud snoring, choking, or gasping during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, or difficulty concentrating, it’s crucial to consider dental sleep apnea therapy. Dental treatment becomes especially relevant if you’ve been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Additionally, individuals who find traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines uncomfortable or challenging to use may benefit from exploring dental alternatives.

Seek dental intervention promptly if you notice signs of sleep apnea, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease and hypertension. At Kathy Zahedi DDS & Associates, we can assess your condition, discuss treatment options, and customize a dental device to suit your needs. Early diagnosis and intervention with dental sleep apnea therapy can improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to consult with us if you suspect you may have sleep apnea.

Dental sleep apnea therapy employs oral appliances to address obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by focusing on the structural factors contributing to airway blockage during sleep. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices (TRDs) are common types of dental appliances used in this therapy. MADs work by repositioning the lower jaw forward, preventing the collapse of throat tissues that cause airway obstruction. TRDs hold the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from blocking the airway.

These custom-fitted devices are designed to be worn comfortably during sleep, promoting better compliance compared to traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. By maintaining an open and unobstructed airway, dental sleep apnea therapy reduces snoring, improves oxygen flow, and enhances overall sleep quality. This non-invasive approach offers a more convenient and user-friendly alternative for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea who may find CPAP machines cumbersome or uncomfortable.