Sleep Apnea Treatment in San Antonio

Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans, yet many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their restless nights, chronic fatigue, and health concerns may stem from this serious sleep disorder. If you find yourself waking up tired despite spending hours in bed, or if your partner complains about loud snoring, you may be experiencing the effects of sleep apnea that require professional attention.

At Advanced Smile Care, we understand the profound impact sleep apnea can have on your daily life and overall health. With nearly 40 years of serving the community, our experienced San Antonio dentist provides comprehensive sleep apnea treatment options designed to help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve while protecting your long-term health.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night, preventing you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep your body needs. Each time breathing stops, your brain briefly awakens you to restart breathing, though you may not remember these awakenings.

The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the soft tissues in your throat collapse and block your airway during sleep. This blockage prevents air from reaching your lungs, causing your oxygen levels to drop and forcing your body to wake up to resume breathing.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Sleep apnea symptoms extend far beyond snoring, though loud, irregular snoring is often the most noticeable sign. Many people with sleep apnea experience chronic daytime fatigue, even after what seems like a full night’s sleep. You may find yourself falling asleep during quiet activities like reading or watching television, or struggling to stay alert during work or while driving.

Morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, and difficulty concentrating throughout the day are also common indicators. Some people experience mood changes, including irritability and depression, as a result of poor sleep quality. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the likelihood of developing sleep apnea rises with age, and men typically face higher rates of diagnosis in their younger years, particularly before reaching 50. Though excess weight significantly elevates your chances of having this condition, sleep apnea affects people across all body types and sizes.

Your bed partner may notice that you snore loudly and then suddenly stop breathing for periods of time before resuming with a gasp or choking sound.

Dental Sleep Medicine Approach

Many people are surprised to learn that dentists play a crucial role in sleep apnea treatment. Dental sleep medicine focuses on the oral and facial structures that contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. Our San Antonio dentist has specialized training in identifying the anatomical factors that may contribute to your sleep apnea and providing effective treatment solutions.

The position of your jaw, tongue, and surrounding soft tissues directly affects your airway size and stability during sleep. When these structures relax during sleep, they can partially or completely block your airway, leading to the breathing interruptions characteristic of sleep apnea.

Oral Appliance Therapy

One of the most effective and comfortable treatments for sleep apnea is oral appliance therapy. These custom-made devices are similar to nightguards but specifically designed to keep your airway open during sleep by positioning your jaw and tongue in optimal positions. Unlike bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are small, portable, and silent, making them an attractive option for many patients.

The appliances work by gently advancing your lower jaw forward, which pulls your tongue forward and increases the space in your airway. This positioning prevents the soft tissues from collapsing and blocking your breathing passage during sleep. Each appliance is custom-fitted to your mouth for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Comprehensive Treatment Options

Our approach to sleep apnea treatment in San Antonio begins with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and oral structures. We work closely with sleep physicians and may recommend a sleep study to definitively diagnose your condition and determine its severity. This collaborative approach ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is often the first line of treatment. These devices are highly effective and much easier to use consistently than CPAP machines. Many patients find they can travel more easily and sleep more comfortably with an oral appliance.

Combination Therapy and Lifestyle Support

Some patients benefit from combination therapy that includes both an oral appliance and lifestyle modifications. Weight management, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol before bedtime can all contribute to improved sleep apnea symptoms. We provide guidance on lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your condition. For those who engage in physical activities, we also offer sports mouthguards that can protect your teeth while maintaining proper jaw alignment.

For patients who have tried CPAP therapy but struggled with compliance, oral appliances often provide a welcome alternative. The comfort and convenience of these devices typically lead to better long-term treatment success.

The Treatment Process

Your San Antonio sleep apnea treatment journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we discuss your symptoms, sleep patterns, and health history. We examine your oral structures, including your jaw position, tongue size, and soft tissue anatomy, to determine if oral appliance therapy is appropriate for you.

If you are a good candidate for an oral appliance, we take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a custom device that fits comfortably and works effectively. The fabrication process typically takes a few weeks, during which we may provide temporary solutions or recommendations to help improve your sleep quality.

Once your appliance is ready, we provide thorough instructions on proper use and care. Follow-up appointments allow us to make any necessary adjustments and monitor your progress. Many patients notice improvements in their sleep quality within the first few nights of using their appliance.

Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is more than just a nuisance that disrupts your sleep. Left untreated, this condition can lead to serious health complications that affect multiple systems in your body. The repeated drops in oxygen levels and the stress of constantly waking up put significant strain on your cardiovascular system.

High blood pressure is commonly associated with sleep apnea, as your heart works harder to pump blood when oxygen levels drop. This increased cardiovascular stress can contribute to heart disease, irregular heartbeats, and an increased risk of stroke. The chronic sleep deprivation also affects your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, potentially contributing to diabetes development or making existing diabetes harder to control.

Impact on Daily Life and Safety

The daytime fatigue caused by sleep apnea significantly impacts your quality of life and can create dangerous situations. People with untreated sleep apnea are at much higher risk for motor vehicle accidents due to falling asleep at the wheel or having slower reaction times. Workplace accidents and injuries also increase when you are not well-rested and alert.

The cognitive effects of sleep apnea include difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision-making. These challenges can affect your job performance, relationships, and overall ability to function effectively in daily activities.

Experience Better Sleep and Health

Quality sleep is essential for your physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Sleep apnea treatment can dramatically improve your energy levels, mood, and cognitive function while reducing your risk of serious health complications. At Advanced Smile Care, we are committed to helping you achieve the restful sleep you need to live your best life.

Our nearly four decades of experience serving San Antonio have taught us the importance of personalized care and comfortable treatment options. We understand that every patient’s needs are different, and we work with you to find the solution that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Contact Advanced Smile Care today at (210) 366-3606 or visit our contact form to schedule your sleep apnea consultation and take the first step toward better sleep and improved health.