Patients in Indiana turn to dentistry for sleep apnea treatment

After a good night’s rest, most people can wake up alert and ready to tackle the day. Unfortunately, others do not sleep well at night, which can leave them feeling drowsy the next morning. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 18 million Americans suffer from a breathing related sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea. While there are several treatments available from CPAP machines to surgery, some may prefer turning to a dentist for a solution. Residents in Indiana are no exception. They come to Washington Street Dentistry in Indianapolis to find a remedy for their sleep woes.

Our skilled and compassionate dentist, Dr. Matthew Church, treats mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea. This can lead to short periods, throughout the night, of which they stop breathing. When patients have this type of sleep apnea, their body does not receive sufficient air supply while sleeping. They can also wake up with headaches and experience difficulty staying awake throughout the day. The signs may not always be noticeable to the patient; however, bed partners will report loud snoring interrupted by short pauses of silence. This is a common symptom of the sleep disorder. Fortunately, Dr. Church can minimize or eliminate these symptoms with a highly sought after treatment called oral appliance therapy.

Treating obstructive sleep apnea

We provide an oral device, similar to a mouth guard, to wear while sleeping. The appliance can reposition the jaw or tongue to help keep the airway open and provide an adequate intake of air during sleep. Many patients prefer this method over a CPAP (Continuous Positive Air Pressure) machine, which involves wearing a mask while sleeping. An oral appliance can be more comfortable and convenient. For very severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea that does not respond to conservative treatments, another option is surgery.

Why seeking treatment is critical

Left untreated, sleep apnea can cause health issues including diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. If you have experienced any symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, do not delay treatment. The Washington Street Dentistry team can place you on the path to a better night’s rest. Call (317) 333-6788 today to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Church.

Share this Article