Sleep apnea treatment in West Springfield

What Is the Definition of Sleep Apnea?

It is a very common sleeping disorder that occurs when your airway collapses, which blocks the normal flow of air into your lungs. This creates interruptions in your sleep since you experience frequent periods where breathing pauses. If left untreated, it can cause serious health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart problems.

How Do I Know If I Have Sleep Apnea?

Here are some of the most common sleep apnea symptoms:

• Loud snoring, nearly every night
• Pauses in breathing
• Choking or gasping sounds during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Feeling lethargic during the day
• Having a sore or dry throat when you wake up

Sleep Apnea Causes

During your waking hours, the muscles located in your throat are stiff, which helps promote the flow of air into your lungs. When you are asleep these muscles become relaxed, which narrows your throat and obstructs the flow of air. If you are generally healthy, you might not have any symptoms, unless you have any of these risk factors:

• Being male
• Are overweight
• Having a neck size greater than 16
• A family history of the condition

What Are My Options for Treatment?

When you come into our clinic, your dentist will evaluate your symptoms and design a treatment plan that best meets your needs. One of the most effective treatment methods is wearing a custom-made mouth guard while you are sleeping. An oral appliance is designed to bring your jaw forward during sleep, which provides relief from snoring and other symptoms by keeping your throat and airway open. You may also benefit from making small behavioral changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, choosing to sleep on your side instead of your back, and quitting smoking. Surgery is another treatment option, but it is only considered after other methods have been ineffective. To explore sleep apnea in West Springfield treatment options and find out more about how you can benefit from an oral appliance, call our office today.

Dental Appliance

Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea Facts

Worn only while you are sleeping, an oral appliance keeps your jaw in a forward position and holds the place of your tongue. This prevents your airway from collapsing during sleep, causing the loud snoring and other symptoms associated with sleep apnea.

How Much Will My Oral Appliance Cost?

Your payment for an oral appliance will vary, depending on your medical insurance and the type of device that works best for you. Contact our office to hear more information about total costs.

What Are the Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy Treatment (OAT)?

Oral appliance therapy offers many benefits for our patients. Since your sleep apnea mouth guard is custom-designed for the unique shape of your mouth, many people find that their device is comfortable to wear while sleeping. In comparison to other treatments, such as a mask that covers your nose and mouth or a surgical procedure, your oral appliance is a non-invasive option that can improve your symptoms. For more information on how a sleep apnea mouth guard can improve your sleep quality and overall health, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Will My Oral Appliance Be Covered by Insurance?

If you have health insurance, the cost of your oral appliance may be covered. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for more information about the coverage for your oral appliance for sleep apnea in West Springfield.