Oral Appliance Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Alexandria

What Are the Three Types of Apnea?

Apnea issues fall into one of three basic categories:

• Obstructive apnea is the most common form of this issue. It is caused by a partial collapse and blockage of the upper airways, which occurs when the muscles relax during sleep. This condition results in frequent episodes of waking during sleep that the patient may not remember after waking up in the morning.
• Central apnea is caused by missed signals in the brain. Normally, the brain sends signals through the nervous system that automatically trigger breathing during sleep. In central apnea, however, these signals do not reach the diaphragm to prompt the intake of a breath during sleep.
• Complex apnea cases exhibit a combination of the characteristics of both obstructive and central apnea. This condition may be more difficult to treat than either obstructive or central apnea alone.

Finding the right solutions for apnea can be challenging. At Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean in Alexandria, we work with you to help you manage this serious condition in the most effective ways possible.

How Can You Tell if You Have Sleep Apnea?

While each case is different, there are a few sleep apnea symptoms that are commonly found in people suffering from this condition. Loud or disruptive snoring is one of the key warning signs of apnea in some patients. This may be self-reported or noticed by members of the family. Periods of stopped breathing are usually reported by family members rather than the patient.

Choking or gasping for breath when awakening suddenly at night can be frightening symptoms of sleep apnea in Alexandria. Sore throats, dry mouths, and headaches are other signs that you may be suffering from this serious condition.

Grogginess, irritability, and sleepiness can also indicate apnea issues. If you frequently awaken from a full night's sleep feeling tired or worn down, you may be suffering from apnea issues that can reduce your ability to enjoy restful sleep on a regular basis.

What Are Some Causes of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea causes may include obesity, use of alcohol or drugs, or other behavioral factors. Genetics often plays a role in cases of central apnea. Our team will discuss the possible triggers for apnea and will design a treatment regimen tailor-made for you and your health.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Apnea Issues?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are one of the most popular options for addressing apnea problems. These machines create a constant positive flow of air that can prevent closing of the airway in cases of obstructive apnea. For some patients, however, these machines are too costly or too uncomfortable to provide the desired benefits.

Surgical options are usually a last resort for apnea patients. In most cases, opting for a sleep apnea mouthpiece or mouth guard can provide real help in managing the condition without the physical stress of surgery for you or your family member.

Exploring Your Oral Appliance Therapy Options

The dental team at Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean in Alexandria can create the right oral appliance for sleep apnea to resolve your issues much more effectively. We can fabricate a sleep apnea mouth guard that will support your airway and prevent it from collapsing and causing obstructions to your breathing during sleep. If you need an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Alexandria, our team can deliver the right options for you.

Should I Consider Oral Appliance Therapy for Apnea?

If cost is a consideration when planning to seek treatment for sleep apnea in Alexandria, you should know that most insurance companies provide at least partial coverage for these treatments. Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean in Alexandria will work with you to keep the cost of your apnea treatments as low as possible and to ensure that you receive the best care possible for your condition. We are committed to the highest standards of excellence in dentistry and to helping you enjoy the best quality of life now and in the future.

To learn more about our options for apnea treatment in Alexandria, give our team a call today at (703) 765-6400. Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean in Alexandria can provide the dental care you need to look and feel your best every day. We offer comprehensive dental services that are precisely right for you and your family members and deliver the right solutions for all your dental care needs.