Reno Sleep Apnea Treatment For A Better Night Sleep

Do you snore?  Does a loved one hear you gasp for air when you sleep?  Do you feel exhausted during the day, no matter how much sleep you get? If so, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have serious consequences for your health if left untreated.

Not to worry, Dr. Josh Woolley and his team at Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, Nevada can help you get a better night’s sleep.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while sleeping. These pauses can last for several seconds to minutes and can happen multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea can cause you to wake up frequently throughout the night, which can lead to daytime fatigue and other health problems.

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

–Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): This is the most common type of sleep apnea and occurs when your airway becomes blocked during sleep.

–Central sleep apnea (CSA): This type of sleep apnea occurs when your brain doesn’t send signals to your muscles to breathe properly.

Why does sleep apnea happen?

There are several factors that can contribute to sleep apnea, including:

–Being overweight or obese: Extra weight can lead to narrowing of the airway and increased risk for obstructive sleep apnea.

–Having a large neck circumference: A larger neck circumference can also lead to narrowing of the airway.

– Smoking: Smoking can irritate the throat and cause inflammation, which can contribute to sleep apnea.

– Drinking alcohol: Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat and can make sleep apnea worse.

– Having a family history of sleep apnea: If your parents or siblings have sleep apnea, you may be more likely to develop the condition.

– Having certain medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure can all contribute to sleep apnea.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that requires treatment in order to avoid health problems. Treatment options for sleep apnea include:

–Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): CPAP is the most common treatment for sleep apnea and involves wearing a mask over your nose and mouth while you sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that provides a steady stream of air, which keeps your airway open and prevents pauses in breathing.

–Oral appliances: Oral appliances are devices that are worn in the mouth while you sleep and work to keep your airway open. These appliances can be custom-made or over-the-counter.

–Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat sleep apnea. Surgery options include airway reconstruction, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), and maxillomandibular advancement (MMA).

Improving your sleep hygiene is also important in treating sleep apnea. Good sleep habits can help you get a better night’s sleep and improve your overall health. Some tips for improving your sleep hygiene include:

– Establishing a regular sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle.

– Creating a relaxing bedtime routine: A relaxing bedtime routine can help you wind down and prepare for sleep. This may include taking a warm bath, reading, or listening to calming music.

– Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep and make sleep apnea worse.

– Sleeping on your side: Sleeping on your side can help reduce snoring and improve airflow.

Get Sleep Apnea Treatment in Reno, Nevada

If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, come visit Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, Nevada. Our office will help you set up a sleep consult where we will send you home with a sleep test and a sleep physician will determine your diagnosis.

We can treat snoring and mild/moderate sleep apnea with a dental sleep appliance.  No traditional impressions necessary!  Our team will scan your impressions digitally and it usually takes about a month to deliver your sleep appliance.  

Don’t wait to get treated! Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can lead to health problems if left untreated. With proper treatment, however, sleep apnea can be managed and you can get the restful sleep you need. Call or book an appointment today so we can give you a plan for a better night’s sleep!