SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT IN ROUND ROCK, TX

What is sleep apnea and what causes it?

As you fall asleep, the tongue and tissue surrounding your airways begin to relax. This loose tissue can rattle as the sleeper snores, causing a loud snoring sound. Obtrusive sleep apnea occurs when the tissues block the airways entirely, from a few seconds up to twenty seconds.

Many sleep apnea sufferers are unaware that they cease to breathe in their sleep. This sudden drop in air intake depletes the supply of oxygen in the body and can lead to serious health problems. An estimated 20% of Americans have some form of sleep apnea. Dr. Arastu has had multiple training courses in the treatment of sleep apnea with dental appliances and proudly offers this service in his dental repertoire.

What are the risks and complications associated with sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea can cause some serious health issues such as:

  • Increased chance of stroke
  • Increased chance of heart failure
  • Disruption to the body’s natural biorhythms due to poor sleep
  • Other less serious but still disrupting downsides include very loud snoring, inability to get a good night’s rest, waking up periodically in the middle of the night, a partner unable to sleep due to excessive snoring, etc.

Self-Diagnosis for Sleep Apnea

While it is important to be diagnosed by a medical professional, there are many symptoms that may be signs of sleep apnea. Symptoms include:

  • Excessive Snoring
  • Restless Sleep
  • Falling asleep/almost falling asleep while driving
  • Moody or aggressive behavior
  • Difficulty with judgment
  • Short-term memory deficienciesPeople most prone

People most prone to sleep apnea are drinkers, smokers, over-weight individuals as well as middle-age to older people.

What is a dental appliance for sleep apnea and how does it work?

We offer the popular Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) for the treatment of sleep apnea. This device looks much like a retainer or mouth guard and is worn in a similar way. Dr. Arastu will properly fit you with you mandibular advancement device, ensuring a comfortable fit and tailoring it to your unique dental needs.

When worn, the device gently shifts the lower jaw forward so that the tissue in the throat does not block airways, even while totally relaxed. During follow up appointments, Dr. Arastu will make sure the device is working properly and will make any necessary adjustments.

Benefits of a Dental Appliance

The benefits of wearing your Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) are many and include:

  • Reduction or elimination of snoring
  • Higher quality of sleep for both the sleep apnea patient and their partner
  • Less obtrusive, noisy, bulky and uncomfortable than CPAP machines
  • Less expensive than CPAP machines
  • An appliance properly fitted by a professional should have little or no effect on your dental health or your teeth’s appearance
  • Increased energy and alertness
  • Patients tend to be more compliant with dental appliances over CPAP machines, making it a sleep apnea solution you can stick to!

 

Are you a candidate for a dental appliance?

Dental appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea are ideal for those with mild to moderate sleep apnea and especially those who sleep mostly on their stomach and backs. The devices are also a great alternative for those who do not like, cannot sleep with, or do not wish to purchase a CPAP machine. Dr. Arastu can evaluate your case and determine whether or not a Mandibular Advancement Device is right for you.