Sleep Apnea Therapy – Sparta, NJ

What Is Sleep Apnea?

There are a few types of sleep apnea, but all of them are characterized by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the rest of the body. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) happens because tissues in the throat block the free flow of air. Mixed sleep apnea is CSA and OSA combined.

OSA is by far the most common type of sleep apnea. Some of its primary symptoms include:

• Frequent, loud snoring
• Daytime fatigue
• Irritability and other mood abnormalities
• Slowed reaction times
• Frequently waking up with a headache or sore throat

Sleep apnea can afflict anyone, but it is most common in obese individuals and seniors.

The Dangers of Sleep Apnea

At first, sleep apnea may seem like nothing more than a nuisance. However, if it is left untreated, it can seriously affect a person’s overall health. For example, OSA is strongly correlated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and Alzheimer’s. The exact reasons for these connections are still being researched. However, many scientists believe that oxygen deprivation is often a key component of OSA that increases health risks.

Sleep apnea can also affect your daily quality of life. It is associated with a higher risk of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. It may adversely affect your performance at work. It can even cause sexual dysfunction, leading to a strain on your relationship with your partner.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

In most cases, physicians recommend a CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea. A CPAP uses pressurized air to keep the airway open, thus preventing pauses in breathing. Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to tolerate their machine.

There is good news! As your sleep dentist in Sparta, we offer oral appliance therapy. This effective CPAP alternative uses a small, mouthguard-like device to gently shift the jaw forward while you sleep. This facilitates the free flow of air and can drastically reduce or even eliminate OSA symptoms. Most people who use an oral appliance find it to be more comfortable and convenient than CPAP therapy.

Are you ready to learn more about sleep apnea and possible treatment options? Contact us today — we look forward to helping you get the shuteye you deserve.

Sleep Apnea FAQs

Want to know more about sleep apnea? Our team as collected some of the most common questions we hear from patients about sleep apnea and answered them below. From treating sleep apnea at home to taking care of an oral appliance, this section sheds light on this common sleep disorder. If you are having trouble sleeping and are interested in sleep apnea treatment in Sparta, don’t hesitate to contact our office!  

Is Snoring Normal?

Snoring doesn’t automatically mean that you are affected by sleep apnea. Over half of the population snores to some degree, and in many cases, it’s nothing more than an annoying habit. However, if your snoring is loud, frequent, or punctuated by pauses in breathing, you should go ahead a schedule a sleep apnea consultation with Dr. Shahinian or Dr. Cannon.  

How Do I Take Care of My Oral Appliance?

Brush your oral appliance each morning with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.  When you are finished brushing, rinse it off with lukewarm water and let it air dry before putting it in its container. At night, always clean your teeth before wearing your oral appliance. If you don’t, bacteria and tiny bits of food will become trapped overnight and damage your teeth. 

If you want to take oral appliance care to the next level, soak your device in water with a denture cleaner tablet once a week. You can buy these tablets from almost any pharmacy or supermarket. A weekly soak will help ensure your oral appliance stays in great shape for as long as possible.

How Common Is Sleep Apnea? 

You are not alone in your struggle with sleep apnea. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, sleep apnea occurs in about 25% of men and nearly 10% of women – that’s over 50 million Americans! This common sleep disorder can affect people of all ages, including children. Men and women with excessive weight around the neck, enlarged tonsils, or a small jaw with an overbite may be more likely to experience sleep apnea. 

Can I Treat Sleep Apnea on My Own?

While there is no substitute for seeing a medical or dental professional, there are some steps you can take that may minimize your sleep apnea symptoms. Here are a few habits that may help you get a good night’s rest:

• Limit caffeine consumption
• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol
• Practice yoga
• Exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet
• Avoid medications that can relax the throat, such as sleeping pills

Does My Insurance Cover Sleep Apnea Therapy?

Obstructive sleep apnea is considered a medical condition. So, when you come to our office for sleep apnea treatment in Sparta, be sure to bring along your medical insurance card. You should also confirm your coverage with your insurance provider before beginning treatment. While many medical insurance plans cover sleep apnea therapy, every plan is slightly different. If you’d like help understanding the details of your insurance policy, do not hesitate to ask! Our expert team is always happy to help patients understand their insurance and maximize their benefits.