• Sleep Apnea

  • Treatment to Give You a Full and Restful Night’s Sleep

    Obstructive sleep apnea can take a huge toll on your health, and it can affect nearly every aspect of your life. Fortunately, the team at Redmond Dental Care offers personalized, non-invasive treatment.

    What Is Sleep Apnea?

    There are actually two varieties of sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is related to brain function; while you are sleeping, your brain does not send the necessary signals to trigger breathing. This rare condition requires a specialist’s care. However, Dr. Yum offers successful treatment for Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This more common, though underdiagnosed, condition arises when your tongue and soft palate slacken during the night. As they droop, they block the flow of air. Each time you stop breathing, you may wake up abruptly, or you may unconsciously move to a lighter stage of sleep. In some cases, this can occur hundreds of times every night, and you will suffer chronic exhaustion and a host of other symptoms.

    Treatment for Sleep Apnea

    Typically, custom-made oral appliances are the most effective treatment for OSA. There are several different oral appliances available. Dr. Yum will work closely with you to find the most effective treatment for your condition. If needed, he will try several appliances until you get the relief you need. A mandibular advancement device is the most commonly used appliance. This splint will fit around your teeth, much like a sports mouthguard. It will realign your jaw during sleep, pushing the lower jaw outward and downward. In this way, it can tighten your soft tissues to keep your airways open. In other cases, Dr. Yum may recommend a tongue-retaining appliance. It will push your tongue slightly forward, preventing it from falling back into your throat. Although these devices require a bit of an adjustment period, they are much more comfortable than bulky CPAP machines and masks.

    Do You Require Sleep Apnea Treatment?

    If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may suffer from sleep apnea:

    • Loud snoring
    • Repeatedly or abruptly waking up during the night, particularly if it is accompanied by gasps or shortness of breath
    • Chronic fatigue
    • Dry mouth
    • Frequent sore throats in the morning
    • Headaches
    • Mood swings and irritability
    • Inattention and forgetfulness