Sleep Apnea Treatment: Transform Your Life with Better Sleep and Health

Have you been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in Spokane, Washington? Wake up feeling refreshed again! Stein Family Dentistry treats sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy, a simple yet effective treatment for mild to moderate OSA. Our customized oral appliances keep your airway open when sleeping, allowing you to breathe easily and sleep soundly. No more sleepless nights or chronic daytime fatigue.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea can be central or obstructive. OSA is the most common and is treatable at a dental office. OSA occurs when throat muscles relax excessively when sleeping. This blocks your airway, causing cessation in breathing for 10 seconds or more. OSA is marked by loud snoring and gasping/choking for air as the body tries to resume normal breathing.

While standard snoring doesn’t cause unpleasant symptoms, the signs of OSA include:

  • Morning headaches
  • Waking up tired despite a full night’s sleep
  • Irritability and mood changes
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Poor concentration
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Fragmented sleep patterns

Untreated sleep apnea has far-reaching consequences for your overall health. It puts you at risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other systemic conditions. If you suspect OSA, don’t put off treatment any longer. Schedule an appointment with a sleep apnea dentist for effective treatment.

How do we treat OSA?

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is the standard treatment for mild to moderate OSA. This machine delivers air through a mask worn during sleep. A CPAP keeps the airway open and promotes healthy breathing when sleeping. Unfortunately, many patients drop this treatment because they find the machine cumbersome and uncomfortable.

Can’t tolerate CPAP therapy? Dr. Andy Stein can treat OSA with a custom-fitted oral device that fits like a nightguard. This oral device keeps the airway open by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue. Oral appliances improve your sleep apnea symptoms after a few days when worn as directed.

Many patients love oral appliance therapy because it offers numerous benefits. The treatment is comfortable and noiseless, and you don’t need electricity to use the device. An oral device is also easy to travel with, and maintenance isn’t cumbersome.

How long does it take to get used to my oral appliance?

Getting a sleep apnea oral device requires two easy dental visits. Digital scans of your teeth and mouth are taken during the first appointment to create a detailed blueprint for your custom-made device. This ensures the appliance is perfectly tailored for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

When your appliance is ready, you’ll schedule another appointment to pick it up. During this session, we’ll provide instructions on how to wear and care for your appliance to maximize its lifespan and performance. While it may take a few days to adjust, any initial side effects, such as increased saliva production, typically subside quickly. Once accustomed, you’ll enjoy normal breathing and restful sleep without even noticing you have a nightguard in your mouth.

Are you ready for sleep apnea treatment?

Do you suspect you might be suffering from sleep apnea? If so, it’s time to take action. Call (509) 463-1770 and schedule an appointment with Stein Family Dentistry in Spokane, WA. You can also reach us by scheduling a convenient online appointment.