Getting restful sleep is important for your energy, focus and overall health. If frequent snoring, daytime fatigue or interrupted sleep is affecting your quality of life, sleep apnea may be worth investigating. At Oasis Studio Carreon Dental & Aesthetics, our dentist, Dr. LeJon Carreon, provides sleep apnea treatment in Littleton, Colorado, including oral appliance therapy.
Dr. Carreon understands that sleep concerns can affect much more than your nighttime routine. Our team takes the time to listen to your symptoms, discuss your concerns and help you understand your treatment options. Call 303-933-2066 to schedule a consultation and learn whether oral appliance therapy may be right for you.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops or becomes restricted during sleep because the airway becomes blocked. This may happen when the tongue or soft tissues in the throat relax and interfere with normal airflow.
These interruptions can occur repeatedly throughout the night and may prevent you from getting the deep, restorative sleep your body needs.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can affect people differently, and some patients may not realize they have a problem until a family member notices frequent snoring or pauses in breathing. Common signs and symptoms can include:
- Frequent or loud snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Waking with a dry or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Irritability or mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Waking during the night feeling short of breath or gasping
Snoring does not always mean that you have sleep apnea, but persistent snoring combined with other symptoms may be a reason to speak with a healthcare provider.
Why Sleep Apnea Treatment Matters
Untreated sleep apnea can interfere with sleep quality and may be associated with broader health concerns. Getting an appropriate diagnosis and finding a treatment that works for you can help support healthier, more restorative sleep.
If you believe you may have sleep apnea, it is important to discuss your symptoms with your physician or another qualified medical provider. Once sleep apnea has been diagnosed, our dental team can work with you and your medical provider to determine whether an oral appliance may be an appropriate part of your treatment plan.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
For some patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy may provide an alternative to other forms of treatment. A sleep apnea oral appliance is custom made to fit comfortably in your mouth while you sleep.
The appliance is designed to help maintain an open airway by positioning the jaw and related oral structures in a way that supports easier breathing during sleep.
Oral appliances are compact and do not require a mask or machine, which may make them a convenient option for certain patients. Whether an oral appliance is appropriate depends on your diagnosis, symptoms and individual treatment needs.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options in Littleton, CO
Sleep apnea treatment is not the same for every patient. Depending on the severity of the condition and recommendations from your medical provider, treatment may include:
- Oral appliance therapy
- CPAP therapy
- Lifestyle changes recommended by your healthcare provider
- Other medical or surgical treatment when appropriate
Our role is to help determine whether dental sleep apnea treatment can support your overall care.
Experienced, Patient-Focused Dental Care
Dr. Carreon has been practicing dentistry since 2000 and believes in treating every patient with respect, empathy and kindness. She takes time to listen to each patient’s concerns and makes comfort a priority throughout care.
That patient-centered approach is especially important when addressing sleep concerns, which can affect daily energy, wellbeing and quality of life. At Oasis Studio Carreon Dental & Aesthetics, our goal is to help you understand your options and coordinate appropriate care so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation
If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or believe you may benefit from an oral sleep appliance, contact Oasis Studio Carreon Dental & Aesthetics to learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Littleton, CO, and schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What are the common signs of sleep apnea?
Common signs of sleep apnea can include loud snoring, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, waking with a dry or sore throat, and gasping or choking during sleep. Because symptoms can vary, it is important to discuss concerns with a qualified healthcare provider.
Can a dentist help with sleep apnea?
Yes. A dentist may help manage obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy after a diagnosis has been made by a medical provider. At Oasis Studio Carreon Dental & Aesthetics, our dentist can evaluate whether a custom oral appliance may help support better breathing during sleep.
How does an oral appliance for sleep apnea work?
A sleep apnea oral appliance is worn while you sleep and is designed to help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and related oral structures. The appliance is custom made to fit your mouth for greater comfort and stability.
Is an oral appliance an alternative to CPAP?
For some patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy may be an alternative to CPAP. The best treatment depends on your diagnosis, symptoms and recommendations from your medical provider.
Do I need a sleep apnea diagnosis before getting an oral appliance?
Yes. Sleep apnea should be diagnosed by a qualified medical provider. Once you have a diagnosis, our dental team can work with you and your physician to determine whether oral appliance therapy may be a good fit for your treatment plan.
Can sleep apnea treatment help with snoring?
Because snoring can be related to airway obstruction, treating sleep apnea may also reduce snoring for some patients. However, snoring does not always mean that someone has sleep apnea, so an evaluation is important before beginning treatment.
Where can I get sleep apnea treatment in Littleton, CO?
Oasis Studio Carreon Dental & Aesthetics provides sleep apnea treatment in Littleton and nearby areas, including custom oral appliance therapy for patients who may benefit from this approach. Call 303-933-2066 to schedule a consultation with our dentist.