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Tackling Sleep Apnea

Often misconstrued as snoring, sleep apnea can be a much bigger problem. A person suffering from obstructive sleep apnea is at the risk of asphyxiation during sleep. If you are having difficulty falling asleep or experience fatigue even after a seemingly good night’s sleep visit Lindenhurst dentist, Dr. Robert Garelick for queries regarding the same. Obstructive sleep apnea is diagnosed using a polysomnogram - also known as a “sleep study.” During a polysomnogram, sleep physicians monitor sleep functioning as a patient rests overnight. In order to diagnose sleep disorders and related medical issues like OSA, the sleep physician evaluates the data collected during the study.  Sleep Apnea can be treated using an Oral appliance therapy or a CPAP machine.

CPAP
Created in 1981 by the Australian pulmonary specialist Colin Sullivan and his colleagues, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP is the most widely used treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. It includes a small machine that supplies a constant and steady air pressure, a hose, and a mask or nose piece. It helps increase air pressure in the throat region so that the airway does not collapse when you breathe in. The machine contains a filter and a small tank of water that are designed to remove impunities and increase the humidity level in the air. CPAP is also one of the best available options while combating environmental factors like obesity can progress slowly. However, the bulky apparatus that comes along with this technique makes it difficult to commit to wearing it for a long time, with many abandoning the machine within a few times of use. Fortunately, changes to the technology are making CPAP much easier to tolerate. When CPAP therapy was just introduced, it was one-size-fits-all. However, of late, varied innovations have taken place in the technology used making it more comfortable and hassle free. Some common problems with the device include a leaking mask, trouble falling asleep, and a dry mouth or nose. Despite these problems, the CPAP remains the most commonly used treatment due to its many positive effects. These effects include improved heart function, quality of life, and energy levels. Moreover, CPAPs decrease daytime sleepiness, especially in those who have moderate to severe sleep apnea. There are many different types of CPAP masks to fulfill different needs and face shapes. Some examples of the different styles are nasal, full face, nasal pillow, nasal prong, hybrid, oral, and total face. The best fit for a patient is typically the type of mask that feels most natural. However, Dr. Robert B. Garelick will work closely with your sleep physician to treat your condition using the Oral appliance therapy.



Oral appliance therapy
Oral appliance therapy involves the selection, fitting, and use of an appliance that effectively holds the jaw forward to maintain an open airway while the patient sleeps. Dentists with specialized training in oral appliance therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea are uniquely qualified to treat OSA with custom appliances. Since oral appliances may affect the teeth and jaw, a dentist’s expertise in these areas are required in order for the treatment to be successful.

Dr. Garelick will evaluate your specific symptoms and then will select the most appropriate oral appliance to correct the airway obstruction and breathing conditions that will ultimately make breathing easier, helping you to finally get the night’s sleep you deserve. These oral appliances are so discrete that they can fit into the palm of your hand. Dr. Robert Garelick offers a variety of Oral appliances to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances are FDA-cleared therapeutic devices that are durable, comfortable, discreet and highly effective. In addition, they can be customized to also treat problems like jaw pain and teeth grinding. The SomnoDent Classic or Flex allows patients to speak and drink while wearing the equipment and is customizable. The O2 Oasys treats blockages that cause snoring. ResMed Narval CC is digitally designed for precise fit and is extremely easy to handle.

Dr. Robert B. Garelick, DDS, is committed to providing excellent dental care in Lindenhurst, NY across the greater Suffolk County, Long Island area. As part of that dedication, we provide comprehensive sleep apnea treatment. Our goal is not only to help you improve your dental health, but to improve your overall health. We will work with you to determine which oral appliance will best treat your obstructive sleep apnea, ultimately helping you to get a healthier and better night’s sleep.

For more information about our sleep apnea treatments, our dental health care, or our dental practice, feel free to contact us today at 631-226-1155. We look forward to hearing from you!

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