Safe and Effective Sleep Apnea Treatments
Sleep apnea is a concerning sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition can lead to a number of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available for sleep apnea, including those offered by our Farmington, NM, dentist, Dr. Charles Schumacher, at Desert Hills Dental Care. Our sleep specialist is proud to improve the sleep quality of New Mexico patients in Farmington, Bloomfield, Aztec, Upper Fruitland, and the surrounding areas.
Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea treatments can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Improved sleep quality and quantity
- Reduced risk of health complications associated with sleep apnea, such as heart disease and stroke
- Increased energy and alertness during the day
- Improved mood and quality of life
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over your nose or mouth while you sleep. This mask is connected to a machine that delivers a constant stream of air pressure, which keeps your airways open and prevents snoring and apnea events.
Oral appliances
Oral appliance therapy involves devices that fit into your mouth like a mouthguard or retainer. They work by repositioning your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open while you sleep. Oral appliances can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea, or for people who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct physical abnormalities causing your sleep apnea. Surgery can involve removing excess tissue from your throat or repositioning your jaw to improve your breathing.
Lifestyle changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage sleep apnea symptoms. These changes may include losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side instead of your back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep apnea be cured?
While there is no known cure for sleep apnea, effective treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments can help reduce the frequency and severity of apnea episodes, allowing for better sleep and reducing the risk of associated health complications. It’s important to work with a sleep specialist to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs.
How long does it take to see results from sleep apnea treatments?
The length of time it takes to see results from sleep apnea treatments can vary depending on the individual and the type of treatment. Some patients may see immediate improvement in their symptoms, while others may take several weeks to notice a difference.
Is oral appliance therapy comfortable to wear?
Oral appliance therapy is designed to be comfortable to wear and should not cause any pain or discomfort. Your dentist can work with you to ensure the appliance fits properly and is adjusted to your individual needs.
Improve Your Sleep Quality at Desert Hills Dental Care
Sleep apnea can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Our Farmington sleep specialist offers effective treatments to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you think you may have sleep apnea, contact Dr. Schumacher by giving us a call at (505) 427-2936, or fill out an online form to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options. With the help of our experienced dentist, you can start sleeping soundly and improving your overall health and wellbeing.