┃What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life-threatening sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. There are multiple kinds of sleep apnea, and it is important to understand the distinctions:

• Obstructive sleep apnea - this is the more common form of sleep apnea that occurs when throat muscles relax

• Central sleep apnea - this form of sleep apnea occurs when your brain doesn't send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing

• Complex sleep apnea syndrome - this form of sleep apnea, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, occurs when an individual has both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea

┃How do I know if I have sleep apnea? What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is impossible to self-diagnose. However, one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea is loud, persistent snoring. If you snore loudly or are not rested after a full-night’s sleep, you may have sleep apnea. Other symptoms for sleep apnea include:

• Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep (ask your partner or another person to help you determine if this occurs)

• Gasping for air during sleep

• Awakening with a dry mouth

• Morning headache

• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)

• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)

• Difficulty paying attention while awake

• Irritability

If you think you may suffer from sleep apnea, you should consult with our experienced dentist as soon as possible to prevent long-term complications resulting from untreated sleep apnea disorder.

┃What kind of treatments will help my sleep apnea?

At Kleypas Family Dental, we understand that treatment for your sleep apnea needs to be customized to your particular condition and symptoms in order to have the greatest effectiveness. In order to properly diagnose your sleep apnea condition, Dr. Kleypas will perform a thorough in-office examination and a review of your medical history. Our dentist will then be able to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs.

Possible treatments may include:

• MRD - a mandibular repositioning device, a type of custom mouthguard that you can wear during sleep, which pushes your tongue and jaw forward and allows patients to breathe more clearly and sleep more comfortably

• CPAP - a continuous positive airway pressure device, which uses a hose and mask or nosepiece to deliver constant and steady air pressure

If you have any additional questions about the diagnosis or treatment of sleep apnea, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please call our office in Cypress, TX. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you!