Obstructive Sleep Apnea
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA occurs when the muscles and tissues surrounding the throat relax causing the airway to completely collapse and block airflow into the lungs. This blockage cuts off the oxygen supply to the body and brain. The airway obstruction persists until the brain partially awakens the person. The repeating cycle-falling asleep, muscles relaxing, airway collapsing, unconsciously awakening with a gasp- is the reason there is never a restful night of sleep. The lack of oxygen puts extra stress on the entire body, especially the heart. Sleep apnea is a serious chronic disease that may trigger other serious health problems:
- Chronic Sleepiness
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Morning Headaches
- Heartburn
- Depression
Have you been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Were You Prescribed the CPAP Machine? Is the CPAP uncomfortable of have you stopped using it? Are you tired of wearing a mask when You sleep? Irritated wife blocking her ears from noise of husband snoring iResearch shows that CPAP Failure is high. Most patients find the CPAP mask uncomfortable and only wear it an average of 4.5 hours per day, five days per week, which has shown to be an insufficient amount of time to alleviate their sleep apnea symptoms. If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, there is an alternative solution to treat your sleep apnea, The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP). The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances, like the TAP, as a first line of treatment for mild and moderate sleep apnea and in cases of severe apnea when CPAP has not worked. In a study in which patients tried both an oral appliance and CPAP, patients preferred the oral appliance 20-1 over CPAP. The TAP is the only mandibular advancement device that can be adjusted easily while in the mouth. This feature allows the patient to be in control of their treatment. Most patients experience relief the very first night they wear their TAP. It usually takes about a week to get use to wearing the appliance. Nine in ten patients wear the appliance all night, every night.
Dr. Bezbatchenko is part of an exclusive group of dentist that have procured the distinction of Diplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. This designation was earned after extensive continuing education, submitting case studies and completing a rigorous examination conducted by the board. Sleep apnea continues to be a serious health concern and contributing factor to many diseases including risk factors for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and more.
Dr. Bez is an expert in the field and passionate about helping his patients not only get a better night’s sleep but also lead healthier, more productive lives. Schedule an appointment today to learn if you may be at risk.
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