Treatment options for Spring residents with mild obstructive sleep apnea

 In Sleep Apnea

Mild obstructive sleep apnea affects many Americans, including patients in the Spring area. Dr. Robert Dernick, DDS can help patients with cosmetic and general dentistry, as well as problems such as mild obstructive sleep apnea.

Mild obstructive sleep apnea occurs due to a blockage of the airway while patients sleep. It can result from a variety of problems, many of which can be addressed to relieve the symptoms. For mild cases, many doctors may simply recommend lifestyle changes. This may include losing excess weight, sleeping in a different position, or quitting bad habits such as smoking, which can contribute to sleep apnea problems. However, for some patients, solutions such as oral appliance therapy may be best.

Oral appliance therapy is one of the most beneficial ways for patients to achieve success in dealing with their mild obstructive sleep apnea. Although many doctors may suggest the use of a CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure), they can be difficult to use and embarrassing for some, which results in lack of compliance with treatment. Instead, most patients comply well with oral appliance therapy. This treatment is offered by Dr. Robert Dernick, DDS through his practice, and it utilizes a special mouthpiece worn during the night to realign the jaw and hold down the tongue. This can open the airway to allow patients to reach restorative levels of sleep and awaken well rested and refreshed. They are small, comfortable, and easy to use, making them the ideal treatment for mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea.

There are other treatments available for sleep apnea, and many are chosen based on the patient’s needs as well as the severity of their condition. Treatment options may also include:

  • Lifestyle changes
  • CPAP machine
  • EPAP (expiratory positive airway pressure)
  • BPAP (bi-level positive airway pressure)
  • Surgery

Dr. Robert Dernick, DDS is happy to help patients in the Spring community treat their sleep apnea to improve their quality of life. Contact his practice today to learn about the benefits of oral appliance therapy over traditional CPAP devices.

 

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