Sleep Apnea
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea refers to a sleep disorder in which a person's breathing is continually interrupted. Each interruption in breathing is referred to as an apnea. These apneas may last a few seconds to a few minutes, and can occur hundreds of times throughout the night.
Sleep apnea can affect your oxygen levels, often causing sleep interruptions and making it difficult to get a full night's rest. Over time, it can increase your risk of heart disease and other issues.
There Are Three Kinds of Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea require the care of a specialist.
If you think you have sleep apnea, you are not alone...
*According to the American Sleep Apnea Association
Sleep Apnea Symptoms Know the Warning Signs
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- Heavy snoring
- Daytime drowsiness (hypersomnia)
- Breathing problems during sleep
- Inability to stay asleep (insomnia)
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth in the morning
- Irritability and grogginess
- Difficulty staying focused while awake
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
- Excessive weight/obesity
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Wide neck circumference
- Advanced age
- Being male
- Family history
- Blocked airways
- Nasal congestion
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol consumption
If you experience any of the symptoms or risk factors listed above, it's important to visit our practice in the Milwaukee, WI, area. By undergoing a sleep study and full examination, we can diagnose your sleep disorder and develop a custom treatment plan.
Custom Oral Appliances Simple Sleep Apnea Treatment
What Is It?
Known as a mouth guard or a night guard, a custom oral appliance can be worn at night as a way of treating obstructive sleep apnea. It's similar to a retainer or an athletic mouth guard.
How Does It Work?
Different mouthpieces can be created, but the principle is the same. The night guard repositions the lower jaw, preventing the tongue from blocking the throat. The device keeps the upper airways clear for people who have obstructive sleep apnea.
Is It Effective?
Yes. Many people all over the state of Wisconsin have used a simple oral appliance to treat obstructive sleep apnea. With their mouthpiece, they can get a full night of uninterrupted sleep.
CPAP versus a Sleep Apnea Mouthpiece
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CPAP stands for "continuous positive airway pressure." These devices consist of a mask worn during sleep that helps promote normal respiration through the upper airway. While effective, CPAP machines can be loud and uncomfortable. A night guard is a much smaller, more comfortable, and simpler option for many people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.
"Wonderful staff and always flexible." Proudly Serving the Greater Milwaukee, WI, Area
Jennifer Kouvoukliotis
2020
Great office, wonderful staff and always flexible. Would recommend to anyone without any hesitation.
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2020
I've been coming here for about eight years. Dr. Don fixed what multiple other dentists couldn't. He did a great job whitening too. I still travel to see him.
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