Sleep Apnea and Snoring Austin TX

occurs when the airway is completely blocked for periods of time during sleep. As many as 25 million people in North America may have Sleep Apnea, with a high percentage of those being unaware of their condition. This condition poses a significant health risk for the patient in that it can lead to irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

occurs when there is a partial obstruction of the airway which causes the palatal tissues to vibrate. Snoring is a social problem, particularly for the spouse and partner. It is estimated that 60% of men and 40% of women between the ages of 40 and 70 years of age snore.

. Currently, obstructive sleep apnea is defined as a medical problem and the diagnosis must be made by a medical doctor or sleep physician who is specially trained in the area of sleep medicine. The CPAP machine is the recommended treatment for OSA but unfortunately only about half of patients are compliant with its use. OSA is life threatening and dental appliances for the treatment of snoring or sleep apnea are an excellent and completely effective more comfortable alternative. Improving your sleep will improve your health and possibly add years to your life. You will feel better during the day having had a better night’s sleep and will avoid the serious health problems associated with the disease.

We utilize an appliance called an EMA (Elastomeric Advancement Appliance). This dental appliance allows the lower jaw to be slightly positioned forward as you sleep, which keeps the airway from collapsing, thus allowing free air exchange and preventing snoring and sleep apnea. Many patients find the dental appliance to be much more comfortable and especially convenient for travel.