Procedures - Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Snoring occurs when the tongue falls back into the back of the throat. This narrows the airway and causes air to move quickly through the passage, resulting in the vibration of the uvula (i.e. snoring). Even though snoring may not be life-threatening it is a significant concern/disturbance/interruption for the significant other.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway completely collapses, blocking airflow into the lungs. It is a serious and life threatening condition. When the obstruction remains in place for more than 10 seconds and occurs more than five times per hour, the patient will usually suffer from chronic sleepiness, depression, high blood pressure, strokes, morning headaches and heart attacks due to hypoxia (a low level of oxygen during sleep).
Treatment Sequence:
- Medical assessment by family doctor or sleep specialist, including sleep test.
- Referral and diagnostic reports sent to dentist; for mild to moderate OSA cases.
- Clinical dental examination.
- Fabrication and insertion of OSA appliance. Follow up appointments are necessary.
- In severe cases Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) or uvula surgery may also be considered.