Sleep Apnea and Sleep Disordered Breathing

Sleep apnea is a disorder where your breathing stops and starts at regular intervals during sleep. It is a potentially severe sleep condition that some people are unaware of. Often those who suffer from sleep apnea feel sleepy and tired even after a long night's sleep. Snoring is another common sign of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea has a few variants, as listed below:

• Central Sleep Apnea
  Your brain fails to send signals to the muscles associated with breathing, causing this condition.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  This is when throat muscles relax during sleep.
• Complex Sleep Apnea
  This is a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Can Orthodontic Treatment Help Address Sleep Apnea?

An orthodontic evaluation can definitely, be a good idea if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or you suspect that you may have sleep apnea or sleep disordered breathing. In cases of mild or moderate sleep apnea, we can make appliances that you wear at night to help you breathe better while you are sleeping. Wearing these appliances is also an option for patients who can't tolerate wearing a CPAP.

Sleep Apnea Treatment and Sleep Disordered Breathing

There are many treatments available depending on the severity and whether or not the issue is in an adult or pediatric patient. Our orthodontist may screen you for sleep apnea and determine if there is an orthodontic or orthopedic issue that is contributing to the problem. He will also collaborate with your physician if you are being referred for care. Most of the treatment that we render in orthodontics involves creating room for the tongue and other soft tissues with the use of intra-oral appliances.

Contact Orthodontics Of The Black Hills to get in touch with Dr. Ross Johnson if you have sleep apnea or sleep-disordered breathing concerns for yourself or your child. You can request an appointment or call us today.