What are the Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common but serious disorder that affects millions of Americans. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea in Bethesda or the surrounding area, you’re not alone. At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, we offer effective solutions to help you get the restful sleep you deserve.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 times or more per hour. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked or collapses during sleep.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea Include:

Loud snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability

Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including:

High blood pressure
Heart disease
Stroke
Type 2 diabetes
Depression
Alzheimer’s Disease

That’s why it’s crucial to seek treatment if you suspect you have sleep apnea.

Common Sleep Apnea Treatments

Several treatment options are available for sleep apnea, depending on the severity of your condition:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP is often considered the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask that delivers a constant stream of air to keep your airway open during sleep.
Lifestyle Changes: For mild cases, lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and sleeping on your side can help alleviate symptoms.
Oral Appliances: This is where our expertise at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC comes in. We offer custom-made oral appliances that are made in our in-house laboratory for sleep apnea that can be highly effective, especially for mild to moderate cases.

The Benefits of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Our Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Snoring Appliance is a game-changer for many patients. Here’s why:

Comfort: Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are smaller, portable, and more comfortable to wear.
Convenience: They’re easy to travel with and don’t require electricity.
Quiet: There’s no noise from a machine, making it easier for both you and your partner to sleep.
Effective: For many patients, oral appliances are very effective and they don’t need then to use a CPAP machine

Our custom-made sleep apnea devices work by gently repositioning your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep. This can significantly reduce or eliminate snoring and apnea episodes, leading to better sleep quality and improved overall health.

Why Choose Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, we understand that every patient is unique. Our team of experienced sleep apnea specialists in Bethesda will work with you to find the most effective treatment for your specific needs.

We use state-of-the-art technology to create custom-fitted oral appliances that are comfortable and effective. Our goal is to help you achieve restful, uninterrupted sleep and improve your overall quality of life.

Take Action for Better Sleep

Don’t let sleep apnea control your life. If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or are struggling with your current treatment, it’s time to explore your options. Our team at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our sleep apnea experts in Bethesda. Let’s work together to find the right sleep apnea treatment for you and help you get the restful sleep you deserve.