Sleep apnea is a sleep-breathing disorder in which a person stops breathing many times during the night. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and mixed, which is a combination of the two. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type, affecting five to ten percent of people internationally. The variation in percentage is largely because many people with OSA have yet to learn they have it. Often, a partner or family member is the one to point it out, resulting in the person getting diagnosed.
If you believe you may have sleep apnea or have been diagnosed, there are treatment options available to help you get a good night’s sleep. Explore our sleep apnea treatment options in northern Virginia from Galleria Dental Aesthetics.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
The first step will be to determine if lifestyle changes are necessary and may improve your symptoms. Weight loss may be suggested for some individuals, as being overweight may lead to sleep apnea. You may also be asked to try sleeping on your side since sleeping on your back can contribute to blockages in the airway. Furthermore, avoiding alcohol and sedatives may be necessary to prevent the muscles from relaxing too much, leading to sleep apnea symptoms.
CPAP Machine
If lifestyle modifications are ineffective, one of the most popular sleep apnea treatments is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. During sleep, you wear a mask, which delivers pressurized air to your airways, keeping the passages open and preventing sleep apnea.
Procedures
CPAP machines are largely effective, but they are not for everyone. We can also recommend specific procedures if necessary. For example, we can use radio-frequency waves to reduce the throat or tongue tissue and prevent them from blocking the airway. Other options include a tonsillectomy, the removal of the tonsils, a Laser-Assisted Uvuloplasty (LAUP), the removal of the uvula, or a procedure to move the mandible forward and open the airway.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Galleria Dental Aesthetics to have your sleep apnea symptoms diagnosed and treated. Our three outstanding dentists, Dr. Chong Lee, Dr. Joseph Oh, and Dr. Kristen Lee, are ready to determine the right sleep apnea treatment for you. Schedule a consultation today at 703-448-1020. We proudly serve Arlington, Mclean, Tysons Corner, and the surrounding areas in northern Virginia.