Do you or a loved one snore? In some cases, snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea. Visit the Office of Dr. Bellisario to discuss your sleep apnea treatment options in our Ardmore, PA dental office. Dr. Jeffrey Bellisario can provide general dental care to stop snoring and sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can lead to further health problems. Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea that is caused by blocked airflow from the nose to the trachea. During sleep apnea, the tissues in the back of the throat collapse. A partial collapse of the airway causes snoring, but a complete blockage causes short periods of non-breathing.
Patients with sleep apnea may experience shallow breathing or seconds of non-breathing. Over time, this can contribute to serious health problems. Sleep apnea obstructs the flow of oxygen to the lungs and heart. Many patients with sleep apnea may have a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease heart attacks, and stroke.
How to Treat Snoring and Sleep Apnea
For patients with severe cases of sleep apnea, we will recommend a CPAP. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. A CPAP machine provides constant airflow to patients through a mask placed over the face. However, this can be uncomfortable and loud, making it difficult for patients to sleep.
An alternative is the Snore Guard® for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. This small intraoral device prevents the jaw and tongue from dropping back in your throat. It keeps the airway open, reduces snoring, and We use dental impressions to make the Snore Guard. Like a mouthguard or nightguard, the appliance fits over the top teeth.
A similar treatment to the Snore Guard is the Tap® 3 Elite. We recommend this FDA-approved device for patients who have severe sleep apnea. The Tap 3 Elite is made of upper and lower tooth trays attached by a hook and a lingual bar. This device holds the mandible forward to prevent tissue collapse in the back of the mouth. We customize the Tap appliance to fit each patient’s smile and ensure that it feels comfortable when worn at night.
Contact Our Dental Office
Get a restful night of sleep. Call Dr. Bellisario today at (610) 839-8967. You may also request a dental appointment online. If you have any further questions or concerns about your treatment, please let us know and we will be happy to assist you.