Comfortable Solutions for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring and sleep apnea can affect more than just your sleep—they can impact your overall health and daily quality of life. At Loving Family Dental, we offer custom oral sleep appliances designed to help patients breathe more easily during sleep and reduce symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Oral appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that can help keep the airway open while you sleep. These custom-made devices are comfortable to wear and can be an effective alternative for patients who struggle with traditional sleep apnea treatments.
If you or a loved one experience loud snoring, restless sleep, or daytime fatigue, our team can help you explore treatment options that support healthier sleep.
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Understanding the Causes of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common and potentially life-threatening disorder in which breathing pauses while you sleep. OSA results in decreased oxygen levels in the blood and can disrupt sleep cycles by briefly waking sleepers through the night. OSA has many different causes.
In adults, the most common cause of OSA is excess weight and obesity which affects the soft tissue of the mouth and throat. During sleep, when throat and tongue muscles relax, the soft tissue can block the airway however many other factors are also associated with this condition in adults. In addition to obesity, other contributing factors may include hypothyroidism, smoking, excessive alcohol use and the use of sedatives.
In children, enlarged tonsils or adenoids and other dental conditions such as a large overbite can contribute to OSA.
Untreated OSA can lead to serious and, many times, life-threatening complications such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, work-related or driving accidents and premature death.
Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Apnea
A physician must determine if you have obstructive sleep apnea. Our office provides patients with at-home sleep tests that are then interpreted by a sleep physician to make a diagnosis.
Treatment for OSA can depend on the diagnosis and the severity of the sleep apnea. Oral appliances can be an effective option for mild-to-moderate OSA. These appliances are worn during sleep and support the jaw in a forward position, which allows the upper airway to remain open and helps improve airflow throughout the night.
At Loving Family Dental, we work closely with physicians to ensure patients receive coordinated care and the most appropriate treatment for their condition.
Dentist Focused on Dental Sleep Medicine
Dr. Lisa Loving
In addition to practicing dentistry at Loving Family Dental, Dr. Lisa Loving is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), the only non-profit professional association dedicated exclusively to the practice of dental sleep medicine.
In 2019 Dr. Lisa completed her Mastery Program and board examination to earn her diplomate status with of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Dr. Lisa works with physicians to treat patients for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy, an effective treatment for many that is covered by most insurance plans.
While oral appliances aren’t for everyone, it’s important to have a dentist that is well educated about sleep and is able to communicate with you and your physician regarding this treatment option.
AADSM membership provides Dr. Lisa Loving with access to educational resources and practice management tools that help her better serve her patients by providing the highest quality of care in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. For more information about AADSM, visit www.aadsm.org.
Sleep Better and Improve Your Health
Better sleep can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. At Loving Family Dental, we are committed to helping patients find effective solutions for snoring and sleep apnea through personalized care and modern dental sleep medicine.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea or are looking for an alternative to CPAP therapy, our team is here to help you explore comfortable and effective treatment options.
Start Sleeping Better
FAQs About Snoring and Sleep Appliances
What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to a blocked airway.
How do oral sleep appliances work?
Oral appliances gently position the jaw forward while you sleep, helping keep the airway open and reducing snoring and breathing interruptions.
Are oral appliances comfortable to wear?
Yes. Custom sleep appliances are designed to fit comfortably and are typically much smaller and easier to use than CPAP machines.
Do I need a diagnosis before receiving a sleep appliance?
Yes. A physician must diagnose obstructive sleep apnea before treatment begins. Our office can help arrange at-home sleep testing that is interpreted by a sleep physician.
Can oral appliances replace CPAP therapy?
For many patients with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy can be an effective alternative to CPAP. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition.
Will insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?
Many insurance plans cover oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea when it is prescribed as part of a diagnosed treatment plan.
