Sleep Apnea Treatment in New Orleans, LA
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep condition that causes breathing cessation several times at night. These brief periods of not breathing may seem trivial on the surface, but your body is a complex system that requires a steady oxygen supply to keep organs healthy. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to many health complications, including sudden heart attacks.
Depending on the type and complexity of your sleep apnea, your dentist may be able to help keep your airway open throughout the night, allowing for safe and relaxing sleep.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and may result from anatomical issues of the throat or complications that cause airway obstruction when asleep. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, and being born male. With obstructive sleep apnea, tissue can collapse against the throat during sleep.
Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea is neurological, meaning the brain does not correctly send the signals needed to breathe.
Complex Sleep Apnea
Complex sleep apnea is a hybrid between obstructive and central sleep apnea. This type of sleep apnea finds the first two causes combined.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of sleep apnea can include any of the following:
- Snoring and gasping
- Sudden waking
- Dry throat
- Dental issues (if related to teeth clenching)
- Daytime sleepiness
- Mood changes
- Weight gain
In advanced cases, when sleep apnea is not treated, you are at risk for the following:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Coronary artery disease
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
Because the complications of untreated sleep apnea can be severe, we always recommend seeking an assessment and diagnosis if you suspect sleep apnea in Gretna.
Common Sleep Apnea Treatments in New Orleans & Gretna
The most common sleep apnea treatment is the CPAP machine prescribed by your doctor. While this machine—a mask worn over the mouth and nose—keeps the airway open, adjusting to the cumbersome mask and hose is not always easy. Other therapies may include weight loss strategies and surgery.
Sometimes, your dentist can create a custom nightguard to keep the airway open during the night. This nightguard fits comfortably over the teeth.
Patients may opt for a CPAP machine coupled with a nightguard for the best results. Additionally, some patients use their CPAP machine at home but pack their nightguards when traveling. The CPAP machine is typically large and challenging to fit into your suitcase. Additionally, many machines require cleaning with distilled water.
Your dentist can assess your level or type of sleep apnea to determine whether nightguard therapy will work for you.
Contact Us for Sleep Apnea Treatment in New Orleans
We work to make sleep apnea treatment affordable for our valued patients. One way we do this is by accepting a Medicare Advantage Plan for sleep apnea treatment in New Orleans. Additionally, we work with CareCredit financing and can bill your dental insurance on your behalf.
To schedule a consultation with the dentist or if you have any questions, contact a dental team member today.
