We’ll Help You Get the Rest You Need
Are you struggling with poor sleep quality, excessive snoring, or daytime fatigue? You may be experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder. At our dental practice in Greensboro, NC, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea and snoring, offering personalized solutions to help you achieve restful nights and improved health.
To learn how to treat your sleep apnea, call our Greensboro, NC, dental office at (336) 364-8988 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Katz.
We Treat Sleep Apnea and Snoring
While snoring and sleep apnea are often used interchangeably, it’s essential to understand the difference. Snoring is a noise produced by the vibration of the relaxed tissues in the throat during sleep. On the other hand, sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and decreased oxygen levels.
Alternatives to CPAP
While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are a common treatment for severe sleep apnea, many patients find them uncomfortable and noisy, leading to poor compliance. At our Greensboro office, we offer an alternative solution: custom-fitted oral appliances.
These comfortable devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. Oral appliances are quiet, portable, and easy to use, making them an excellent option for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
In addition to treating mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliances can also be used to treat snoring and teeth grinding associated with TMJ disorder.
The Risks of Ignoring Your Sleep Apnea
Your sleep apnea isn’t going to go away on its own, and it can affect your health and quality of life. Sleep apnea causes you to develop poor sleeping habits that can create excess stress on your body and mind. When left untreated, the consequences of sleep apnea can be devastating.
Sleep apnea can be linked to several damaging medical conditions and mental health issues, including:
- Strokes
- Heart attacks
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Anxiety
Sleep apnea also affects your ability to complete basic tasks. Fatigued sleep apnea sufferers are responsible for many traffic accidents annually.
In children, sleep apnea causes daytime drowsiness and behavioral and academic problems at school. Unfortunately, childhood sleep apnea is often misdiagnosed as ADHD because the symptoms are very similar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
Can oral appliances treat snoring without sleep apnea?
Yes, oral appliances can effectively reduce or eliminate snoring caused by the relaxation of the throat tissues during sleep, even if sleep apnea is not present.
How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
If you experience persistent snoring, gasping, or choking during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, or other related symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a sleep specialist for a proper diagnosis. They may recommend a sleep study to evaluate your condition accurately.
What is the process for getting an oral appliance?
The process begins with a consultation at our Greensboro office, where Dr. Katz will evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. If an oral appliance is suitable, we’ll take impressions and measurements to create a custom-fitted device tailored to your unique needs.
Is sleep apnea treatable in children?
Yes, sleep apnea can affect children, and it’s crucial to address it promptly. Untreated sleep apnea in children can lead to behavioral issues, poor academic performance, and developmental problems. Oral appliances or other treatments may be recommended based on the severity of the condition.
Regain Restful Sleep with Dr. Katz
Don’t let sleep apnea continue to disrupt your life. Take the first step toward better sleep and improved health by scheduling a consultation at our Greensboro office. Call us at (336) 364-8988 today, and let us help you find the relief you deserve.
We proudly serve patients in Greensboro and surrounding areas, including Winston-Salem, Whitsett, Summerfield, and Kernersville, NC.