Introduction

Sleep Apnea Treatment

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Sleep is not something any person should go without. The hours that you spend sleeping rejuvenate every cell of your body. Without adequate sleep, physical and cognitive capacity declines. Many people struggle with the symptoms of chronic fatigue without knowing that the problem could be right under their nose. Dr. David Frey is proud to offer comprehensive dental services to patients in the Beverly Hills area that include treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea, or obstructive sleep apnea, is a dangerous and often frightening disorder, where the tongue obstructs the back of the throat and prevents air from entering the lungs during sleep. This condition results in a very low blood oxygen level, and can result in numerous additional physical and psychological medical problems. Patients with sleep apnea will often jolt awake to gasp for air, and have reported depression, trouble concentrating during the day, and constant fatigue.

What is Sleep Apnea

What Is Snoring?

Snoring is a frustrating habit that occurs when there is a partial blockage in the nasal passageway. We may snore when we have a cold or when allergy season comes around. Some people snore every night regardless of a known cause. This could be related to the pressure inflicted on their airway when they sleep. Pressure can somewhat narrow the airway, making it more difficult for air to pass through. When breathing, the movement of air causes vibration in the soft tissue of the throat, creating the sounds we know as snoring.
Sleep Apnea snoring

Is Snoring Always A Sign Of Sleep Apnea?

Nearly 90 million people are chronic snorers. However, only about half of them have sleep apnea. So, no, snoring does not always equal sleep apnea. What we do know is that snoring is a major indicator of the common sleep condition, but not mere snoring. A person with sleep apnea will typically snore very loudly for a time and then “quit” snoring. The quiet indicates that there is no air passing through the airway.

Sleep Apnea Dangers

Dangers Of Sleep Apnea

The National Sleep Foundation reports that sleep apnea is directly linked to heart disease, and can even lead to an early death.Sleep apnea affects the body in two ways. One is by inhibiting quality sleep. Lack of sleep means there is less energy in the cells to function well, thereby inviting disease. Another effect of sleep apnea is a persistent chemical stress response caused by oxygen deprivation in the brain. Every time there is an apnea episode, the body gets infused with adrenaline.

Untreated sleep apnea is known to worsen the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. It also disrupts the bodies endocrine system, increasing the risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. People with sleep apnea are more prone to depression and anxiety. They are more at risk for accidents and relationship problems. Studies have shown that sleep apnea also increases the likelihood of fatty liver disease and cardiovascular problems associated with the stress that apnea places on the heart muscle. Studies indicate that obstructive sleep apnea reduces life expectancy an average of twelve years.

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

The first step to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea is to see a board certified sleep doctor, who will assess the severity of your condition. He or she may take a lateral Cephologram to determine the size of the airway in your throat, and then use a Pharyngometer to measure the volume of air that can travel through the airway.
Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep Apnea Treatment

There are several ways to treat sleep apnea. When possible, our practice prefers to create an oral mouthguard that gently holds your lower jaw forward as you sleep. This, in turn, prevents your tongue from blocking the airway in your throat.

How Long Will I Need To Use An Oral Mouthguard?

Oral appliance therapy may continue indefinitely if symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea do not improve with weight loss and lifestyle improvements.

Can Sleep Apnea Be Cured?

There does not seem to be a cure for sleep apnea. However, several strategies can be implemented to diminish the symptoms of this condition. The first step in doing so is to determine the underlying cause. A high percentage of cases are identified as obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that occurs due to a physical blockage of the airway. Treatments, therefore, revolve around lifestyle changes and breathing devices that maintain the airway during sleep.
Sleep Apnea Cured

Is Sleep Apnea Related To TMJ?

One study discovered that 43% of people with TMJ also have problems sleeping. Studies are still ongoing to fully understand the connection between these two disorders. The relationship could be that, when a person stops breathing, the natural physiological response is to push the lower jaw forward to open the airway. The continual repetition of this movement during sleep places stress on the temporomandibular joints, creating inflammation and pain. Another theory is that TMJ contributes to obstructive sleep apnea because the joint and muscular structure that controls the lower mandible is out of alignment and therefore partly responsible for airway obstruction.

Schedule A Consultation

If you’re concerned that sleep apnea is affecting your quality of life, please contact us immediately at (310) 276 4537. We work closely with doctors who specialize in sleep disorders and cosmetic dentistry and can make a recommendation based on your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do braces last longer than Invisalign?

For most patients, Invisalign takes about 12 to 18 months. However, those with very mild cases often see results within the first 6 months, while those with more severe cases may need up to 24 months. Traditional braces usually take about 12 to 18 months, with some patients needing up to 24 months. Very rarely does it take less time to treat malocclusion with traditional braces.

Is Invisalign covered by insurance?

Some dental insurance providers will cover dental insurance, while others will not. Our office staff will be happy to contact your provider to determine coverage. We strive to help you get the most out of your benefits.

What teeth are not suitable for Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners are not suitable for baby teeth or for teeth that are severely rotated or with large gaps between them.

Is it OK to get Invisalign from a dentist?

Yes, you can get Invisalign treatment through a general dentist. However, it is important to make sure that they are an Invisalign provider. This is because this treatment option requires specialized treatment to ensure the best results.

Is Invisalign still braces?

Yes, Invisalign clear aligners are considered a type of orthodontic treatment. However, this option is much more comfortable, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing than traditional metal braces.

How many times a day can I remove Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners can be removed as many times as necessary- but the time should not exceed 4 hours. While the aligners need to be removed when eating/drinking or when brushing/flossing, the longer they are worn, the more effective they will be.

Who is a bad candidate for Invisalign?

Patients who still have baby teeth or who have teeth with wide gaps between them or teeth that are severely rotated should not consider Invisalign treatment. It is possible to use Invisalign after other methods for more precise movements.

What is the success rate of Invisalign?

The success of Invisalign depends on several factors including the type and severity of the malocclusion, as well as the compliance of the patient. Most patients have been satisfied with their results.

How long do you need to wear Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Each set should be worn for 1 to 3 weeks. This will be outlined in your treatment plan, depending on the type and severity of your malocclusion.

Why is Invisalign so expensive?

One of the primary reasons that orthodontic treatment in general is expensive is because of the additional training the dentist needs. Invisalign is slightly more expensive due to the many benefits it brings.

Is Invisalign costlier than braces?

One of the biggest concerns that patients have is Invisalign cost. However, the average cost is comparable to that of traditional braces. Unfortunately, while many dental insurance providers will cover a portion of treatment, many others still classify this as a cosmetic procedure and will not cover any portion of it.

If you do not have insurance or if your provider does not cover treatment, we offer some financing options as well.

How much does Invisalign cost in California?

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on several factors including the type and severity of your malocclusion the location of the clinic and the experience/expertise of the dentist. The average cost in California ranges from around $4,500 to $9,000, which is slightly higher than the national average.

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