If you suffer from snoring and sleep apnea, we know you need relief. Fortunately, there are a number of treatment options that could serve you well — from a customized sleeping device all the way to surgery, Dr. Nawrocki will consider all of the options to decide which one would serve you the best. Keep reading to learn about your options for sleep apnea treatment in Ormond Beach!
How We Treat Sleep Apnea
Many cases of sleep apnea and snoring can be treated non-surgically with a CPAP machine or a customized oral device that you wear when you sleep. The CPAP is often the first option for treatment, and it works by forcing air into the lungs to prevent the collapse of the soft tissues that can result in sleep apnea and labored breathing. Patients who do not find relief with the CPAP may benefit from an oral device — a method that is best for people who are suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea. It works by repositioning the lower jaw to prevent its collapse and allow you to sleep soundly throughout the night. This simple and non-invasive treatment provides wonderful relief for many patients.
When Surgery Is Necessary
Patients with severe sleep apnea who have not found adequate relief with a removable oral device or the CPAP machine may benefit more from surgical treatment for sleep apnea. Dr. Nawrocki will carefully evaluate your case and work hand-in-hand with you to determine which treatment is needed for your relief.
There are several surgical options that can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Four common solutions include:
- Soft palate surgeries, which target the excess skin at the back of the throat that causes audible vibrations (aka snoring) and blocked airflow while you sleep. The excess tissue may be removed and/or repositioned to make the airway wider for easier breathing.
- Surgeries to open up the nasal passage, including procedures to improve a bent or deviated septum.
- Radiofrequency Volumetric Tissue Reduction, which uses targeted cauterization to shrink and/or tighten the excess tissue that causes snoring and blockage at the back of the throat.
- Genioglossus advancement, which moves your tongue forward to prevent its collapse and open up the airway for easier breathing during sleep.
Don’t Wait to Find Relief!
No matter the treatment that is right for your case of sleep apnea, finding an effective solution is of the utmost importance. Sleep apnea that is not treated can cause a host of health problems — even leading to premature death in the most severe cases. To find out more about your treatment options, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your dentist in Ormond Beach!
About Brown & Nawrocki
The Brown & Nawrocki dental team offers comprehensive dental care along with specialty services like sleep apnea treatment. To learn more about how you can find relief from sleep apnea and snoring or to schedule an appointment for any of their general, restorative, or cosmetic treatments, you are invited to contact the office today by calling (386) 677-1046.