Sleep Apnea & Snoring

Restful sleep is crucial to your overall health and well-being. At Raleigh Dental Arts, we understand the frustration and health risks that come with sleep apnea and snoring.

Our experienced team is here to identify the cause of your sleep issues and guide you toward effective solutions for a restful, uninterrupted night's sleep.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

The most common type of sleep apnea is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and occurs when the soft tissue in the back of your throat collapses during sleep. Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes you to stop breathing for several seconds or even minutes at a time.

These pauses in breathing can last for several seconds or even minutes. They can occur dozens of times per hour, leading to disrupted sleep and decreased oxygen levels.

Some symptoms of OSA are long pauses in breathing, snorting or gasping sounds, and daytime fatigue.

Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Snoring is often a symptom of sleep apnea, as the vibrations of the partially blocked airway create the snoring sound. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea and not everyone with sleep apnea snores.

Sleep apnea can affect anyone; however, factors that can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea include:

• Obesity
• Family history of sleep apnea
• Smoking
• Alcohol or sedative use
• Nasal congestion
• Large neck circumference
• Enlarged tonsils or tongue

The Importance of Sleep Apnea Treatment in Raleigh

Left untreated, the effects of sleep apnea can severely impact your general health. Some potential health risks associated with sleep apnea include:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Depression
• Worsening of ADHD symptoms
• Decreased productivity and focus

The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Daily Life

The effects of sleep apnea not only pose serious health risks but often leave you feeling tired and unable to concentrate. Daytime drowsiness, irritability, difficulty staying focused, impaired memory, and depression affect your work performance, personal relationships, and overall quality of life.

Treating sleep apnea not only helps mitigate its health risks but can also play a part in restoring your energy levels and improving your emotional well-being.

Oral Appliance Therapy: A Solution for Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a non-invasive treatment option for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who snore. Our dentists customize an appliance similar to a mouthguard for you to wear during sleep.

The device works by shifting your lower jaw forward, opening your airway, and reducing the risk of blockage. OAT is an effective alternative for those who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

We recognize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to sleep apnea and snoring treatment. Our dentists work closely with sleep physicians to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and the best possible care.

After a sleep study and diagnosis, our team collaborates with your sleep physician to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for your specific needs.

Our goal is to help you achieve a restful, rejuvenating night's sleep, free from the disruptions and health risks of sleep apnea and snoring, and our experienced team is dedicated to finding the best solution for you. 

Take the First Step to a Better Night's Sleep

Don't let sleep apnea or snoring rob you of the rest you deserve. Schedule a consultation with your Raleigh dentist and take the first step toward a healthier, more restful night's sleep.