Sleep Apnea
Prevent Deadly Health Problems
Find Real Help for Sleep Apnea in Garden City
You deserve to breathe easily through the night and wake up refreshed. Sleep apnea treatment can help make that a reality. Whether you've already been diagnosed or simply suspect something is disrupting your sleep, we have ways to help.
Dr. McVey offers screenings to determine if sleep apnea in Garden City may be affecting you. If so, we can fit you with a custom sleep device to gently reposition your jaw and keep your airway open during the night. It's a comfortable, easy-to-manage alternative to a CPAP machine that fits naturally into your nightly routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, preventing you from getting the deep, restorative rest your body needs. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the muscles in the throat relax and the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep.
What are the most common signs of sleep apnea?
Common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, frequent nighttime awakenings, morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, and feeling tired throughout the day despite a full night of sleep. A bed partner may also notice pauses in your breathing during the night that you are unaware of yourself.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically identified through a sleep study or screening that monitors your breathing and oxygen levels during sleep. A high-resolution pulse oximeter screening can help determine whether your oxygen levels are dropping during the night, giving your dentist a clearer picture of whether sleep apnea may be affecting your rest and overall health.
What dental treatments are available for sleep apnea?
Custom oral appliances are the primary dental treatment for sleep apnea. These devices are worn during sleep and work by gently repositioning the lower jaw to keep the airway open throughout the night. They are a comfortable, noninvasive alternative to CPAP therapy and are custom-fitted to your mouth for the best possible results.
Is a dental oral appliance as effective as a CPAP machine?
For mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance can be just as effective as a CPAP machine for many people. Oral appliances are often preferred because they are quieter, smaller, and easier to use consistently, which makes them a better long-term solution for people who find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or difficult to maintain.
Who is a good candidate for a dental oral appliance?
A dental oral appliance is a good fit if you have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, particularly if you've tried CPAP therapy and found it difficult to tolerate. A thorough evaluation and sleep screening help determine whether an oral appliance is the right approach for your sleep apnea.
Can sleep apnea affect my overall health?
Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a number of serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The repeated interruptions in breathing that occur throughout the night put significant stress on the cardiovascular system over time, making treatment an important step in protecting your long-term health.
How do I care for my oral appliance?
Caring for a dental oral appliance involves rinsing it with cool water after each use, brushing it gently with a soft toothbrush, and storing it in its protective case when not in use. Bringing it to your regular dental appointments allows your dentist to check the fit and condition of the appliance and make any necessary adjustments over time.
