Get A Better Night of Sleep
It’s hard to do your best when you aren’t sleeping enough. At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we understand the effect sleep deprivation due to sleep apnea can have on your life. That’s why our Belmont and Foster City, CA, orthodontists, Drs. Jacklyn Kurth and Juliette Russell, provide sleep apnea solutions.
Our goal with sleep apnea treatment is to help patients rediscover the benefits of deep sleep, allowing their bodies and minds to restore themselves to the fullest.
The Importance of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times throughout the night. The most common type of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, leading to a blockage in the airway.
What are the signs of sleep apnea?
If left untreated, sleep apnea can take a toll on your health and daily life. The constant disruptions in breathing can lead to poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and an increased risk of accidents, as it impairs concentration and alertness.
Sleep apnea is also linked to various health conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
Seeking timely treatment for sleep apnea is crucial to improving your sleep quality, overall health, and quality of life.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we offer a range of effective sleep apnea treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Our team of orthodontists is committed to providing comprehensive care and helping you find the right solution for your sleep apnea.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy
CPAP therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over your nose or nose and mouth while you sleep. The mask connects to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air, keeping your airway open and preventing apneas. CPAP therapy can improve sleep quality and alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy is an excellent sleep apnea solution for patients who didn’t find success with CPAP. These custom-made oral appliances reposition the jaw and tongue, helping to keep the airway open during sleep. Oral appliances are comfortable, portable, and easy to use, making them a convenient choice for many sleep apnea patients.
Surgical Intervention
In some cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to treat sleep apnea. Surgery aims to remove excess tissue or correct structural abnormalities that contribute to airway obstruction. Procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), genioglossus advancement, and hyoid suspension can widen the airway and improve breathing during sleep. Dr. Kurth may refer you to an area ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor to discuss this option.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment can also play a crucial role in managing sleep apnea. By correcting dental and jaw irregularities, orthodontic appliances can improve teeth alignment and promote proper airflow. At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic solutions, including braces and clear aligners, to address underlying issues contributing to sleep apnea and enhance the effectiveness of your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
▼What are the common symptoms of sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can manifest through various symptoms, including loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and restless sleep. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult a sleep apnea specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
▼How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a sleep study conducted in a specialized sleep center. During the sleep study, a sleep specialist will monitor your breathing patterns, heart rate, oxygen levels, and other vital signs to determine the presence and severity of sleep apnea.
▼Can sleep apnea be cured?
While sleep apnea cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. The right treatment option will depend on the severity of your condition and other individual factors. With proper treatment and lifestyle modifications, you can significantly reduce the symptoms and improve your sleep quality.
▼Is sleep apnea only a problem for older adults?
No, sleep apnea can affect individuals of all ages, including children. However, certain factors, such as obesity, family history, and underlying medical conditions, may increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect sleep apnea, regardless of age.
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation
If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics is here to help. Our experienced team, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive sleep apnea treatment options make us the top choice in Belmont and Foster City, CA. Take the first step toward better sleep and improved health by scheduling a consultation with our orthodontists today.
Call our Foster City office at (650) 525-9440 or our Belmont office at (650) 592-4850. You can also request an appointment by filling out our online contact form. We happily accept patients from the Bay Area, including San Carlos, Devonshire, and Sugarloaf, CA.