Dental Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Boulder

Sleep apnea is a more common and more serious health condition than most think. More than just snoring, during an apneic episode a person can stop breathing for brief periods of time – which may occur anywhere between 5 and hundred times per hour! Many will put off seeking sleep apnea treatment because they think the condition is a small nuisance, leaving them a little tired. But it is crucial to understand that sleep apnea is also associated with potential risks such as heart disease, metabolic disorders, depression and stroke.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Boulder

Sleep Issues

If you’re experiencing sleep issues, specifically snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, you may have partial or completely blocked airways. At Whole Family Dentistry, we’ve found the best solution for many of our patients is to use an oral appliance for sleep apnea. This simple and virtually maintenance-free alternative to the CPAP machine can help open, your airway, allowing you to breathe easier while you sleep. Mandibular repositioning devices offers these additional benefits and features:

Portability when you travel
Comfortable
Can treat TMJ Disorders at the same time
Often has the same effectiveness as CPAP

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious condition where your breathing will stop and start repeatedly while you’re sleeping or when you breathe inefficiently at night time creating low oxygen levels. You may have sleep apnea if you snore loudly or still feel tired after a full night of sleep. You may grind your teeth at night because of sleep apnea.

What are the symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Some symptoms of sleep apnea include:

Drowsiness and fatigue
Loud snoring
Morning headaches
Disturbed sleep
Irritability/mood changes.
High blood pressure

What treatment options are available for Sleep Apnea?

To treat Sleep Apnea, Whole Family Dentistry offers a safe and comfortable oral appliance, which is similar to an athletic mouth guard.

The oral appliance is worn while the patient is sleeping. The oral appliance works by keeping the airway open and preventing the airway from collapsing in the first place. While wearing the oral appliance, the tongue and jaw are kept forward, which allows the airways to pass more air and for you to enjoy a better night of sleep.

FAQs

Why Choose Whole Family Dentistry for Your TMJ or Sleep Apnea Needs?

Dr. Kawulok is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Only a very limited number of Colorado dentists hold this distinction. It indicates Dr. Kawulok’s commitment to training and knowledge in treating TMJ and Sleep Apnea. Both Dr. Kawulok and Dr. Kent are trained in the Physiologic approach to TMD and OSA treatment. We at Whole Family Dentistry strive to provide optimal dental treatment for sleep apnea and TMJ. Patients often have both problems simultaneously. We can review with you all TMJ/OSA treatment options to provide you comprehensive care. We understand the importance of convenient and comfortable dental care for everyone - whether you’re meticulously taking care of your teeth or it’s been a while since your last dental visit. Dr. Kawulok and Dr. Kent have trained at the world-renowned LVI and have a passion for creating beautiful smiles and healthier mouths. Contact us today and see how we can help you have a healthier, more radiant smile.

Resolving sleep apnea through dental appliances.