Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. The most prevalent type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the airway becomes blocked due to relaxed throat muscles, collapsed tissues or the tongue falling back in the throat. Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of severe health issues, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and chronic fatigue.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Daytime fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Personality and mood changes, including irritability
A proper diagnosis of sleep apnea requires a sleep study conducted by a qualified sleep physician. However, if you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, Dr. Ashley Price and Dr. Chelsea Guilliot can collaborate with your physician to help manage your condition.
For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, our dentists may recommend oral appliance therapy. This treatment involves wearing a custom-made oral appliance while sleeping. The appliance helps maintain an open airway by repositioning the lower jaw or tongue, preventing soft tissues from collapsing and blocking airflow. Oral appliances are comfortable, portable and easy to use, making them an excellent alternative to CPAP therapy for many individuals.
At Price & Associates Family Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to sleep apnea treatment. During your consultation, our experienced dentists will evaluate your needs and create a custom oral appliance designed for optimal comfort and effectiveness. By addressing sleep apnea, you can improve your quality of sleep, reduce daytime fatigue and protect your overall health.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, do not ignore the signs. Contact our office today at 337-988-4041 to schedule a consultation with our dentists and learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Lafayette, Louisiana. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve restful sleep and better health through professional, patient-focused care.