Sleep apnea treatment encompasses various approaches to manage a potentially serious sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. Standard treatment options include lifestyle changes, positional therapy, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, surgery, and, in some cases, a combination of these methods. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve sleep quality, and reduce health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular issues and daytime fatigue. At Venetian Pointe Dentistry, treatment plans are tailored to the individual's specific condition and may involve ongoing monitoring to ensure effectiveness.

Types of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing a partial or complete airway obstruction. This leads to pauses in breathing and a drop in oxygen levels, prompting the brain to awaken to resume normal breathing briefly. OSA is often characterized by loud snoring and is associated with obesity, age, and anatomical factors that can narrow the airway.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

CSA is less common and differs from OSA because it involves a lack of effort to breathe rather than an obstruction. In CSA, the brain fails to send the appropriate signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. This results in repeated interruptions in breathing without the physical struggle to breathe seen in OSA.

Complex or Mixed Sleep Apnea

Complex or mixed sleep apnea, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, is a combination of both OSA and CSA. Initially, a person may have OSA, but with the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, CSA may emerge.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Lifestyle Modifications

In mild cases of sleep apnea, lifestyle changes can be an effective initial treatment. These modifications may include weight loss, as excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction. Avoiding alcohol, sedatives, and sleeping on your back may also help alleviate symptoms, as these factors can relax the throat muscles and increase the risk of airway collapse during sleep. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can aid in weight loss and overall health, potentially reducing the severity of sleep apnea.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea by our dentist in Orlando, FL. It involves wearing a mask over the nose and mouth while sleeping. The CPAP machine delivers a constant stream of air pressure, keeping the airway open and preventing apneas. Properly adjusted CPAP therapy is highly effective in reducing symptoms and improving sleep quality.

Oral Appliances

Oral appliances in Orlando, FL, are often recommended for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth and reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. They are comfortable and portable, offering an alternative to CPAP for those who find the mask and machine cumbersome.

Treatment choice depends on the type and severity of sleep apnea, individual factors, and patient preferences. For more information, visit Venetian Pointe Dentistry at 5940 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819, or call (407) 352-6959.