Sleep Solutions

Sleep Solutions

We offer our patients the newest technology in dental sleep medicine.  At Branson Dental Center,  we can now review your 3D Cone beam scan using sleep medicine technology showing us your available airway space.

If you snore or think you might possibly have sleep apnea, please call our office today to discuss your sleep solution.

SLEEP APNEA

What Is Sleep Apnea?

People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.

Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.

Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

The first step in treatment for sleep apnea resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.

In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometic (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night.

OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!

Initial Consultation

The doctors at Branson Dental Center will review your sleep history and concerns with you. We will perform a 3-D cone beam image which allows us to see your airway and any constrictions that may be present. A short questionnaire will provide us with additional information regarding your sleeping habits. With this information, we will provide you with a recommended treatment plan and possibly a referral to the Pulmonologist. If a sleep study has not been completed within the last year, the doctor may have you perform an at-home sleep study.

Exam And Models

An examination will be completed, inspecting jaw muscles, soft tissue areas and a screening for oral cancer. Your airway will be evaluated, as well as a tooth and bite inspection. We will also scan your upper and lower teeth in order to create your custom appliance.

Receiving Your Custom Appliance

Once your appliance has been created and ready for your use, the doctor will check the unit for appropriate placement and make adjustments as needed. He will then provide you with instructions on how to use and care for the appliance and answer any questions you may have regarding home care.

Follow-up Appointments

We will schedule you to come back in 1-2 weeks for a follow-up evaluation and provide additional adjustments if needed.  Adjustments to the appliance can be made as needed, based on your individual progress.

*You will be required to bring your appliance to your check up appointments every 6 months for evaluations.

If at any time you have questions or concerns, please contact the office.  We are here to help you achieve optimal sleep and health benefits. 

Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea

Once we check your airway, we review several of the key signs for sleep issues:

  • Waking up tired
  • Insomnia
  • Morning headaches
  • Waking up at night to go to the bathroom
  • Loud or frequent snoring
  • Silent pauses in breathing
  • Choking or gasping sounds
  • Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory loss
  • Decreased sexual desire
  • Irritability

Only a visit with your doctor or pulmonologist will be able to determine if you are suffering from sleep apnea. Our role as your dentist is to look for key signs in providing you with your referral for a better night’s sleep.

Sleep Apnea Faqs

Medical and dental treatment options include: Positional Devices, CPAP or BiPAP, Oral Appliance Therapy and Surgery.
An oral appliance is a small plastic device that fits over the upper and lower teeth, similar to an orthodontic retainer or mouth guard. The appliance is worn in the mouth during sleep to prevent the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway. Oral appliances work by slightly advancing the lower jaw which in turn moves the base of the tongue forward and opens the airway to allow improved breathing and sleep.
If the problem is snoring only, the appliance is effective in approximately 85% – 90% of patients. When treating apnea, the appliance is 60%-80% effective, depending on the severity of the apnea. The appliance tends to be more effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. However, it can be successful for severe apnea as well.
You will be referred back to your physician for a follow-up sleep study while using the appliance. The results of the test will confirm the effectiveness of the device.
Sleep Appliances are not covered by Dental Insurance. We will give you the necessary documentation to submit to your medical insurance. However, this is a fee for service procedure.
95% of patients will adapt to the appliance within 2-7 days. It will take a few days to adapt to having a device in your mouth during sleep.

Ready to restore your sleep? Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!

Call Us : 417-336-8478
417-336-8478

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