What sleep apnea treatment can Gilbert area patients use?

Dr. Edward Fritz of New Health Dental in the Gilbert area provides families with a variety of solutions for their dental health needs, but he also helps patients who are struggling with sleeping disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that affects many patients and they are often unaware. The symptoms often show up during the night with snoring and gasping for air, something the patients will not notice, but sleeping partners may. Patients may find that they are experiencing extreme daytime tiredness, never feel well rested, or wake with dry mouth. Symptoms such as these may point to obstructive sleep apnea and they should be addressed by a dentist or physician who can provide a proper diagnosis and suggest effective treatment.

In most cases, a physician may suggest a CPAP (constant positive airway pressure) machine for the treatment of sleep apnea. This device is used to open the airway, which allows patients to breathe easy during the night. However, many patients find that this is a very uncomfortable device and compliance with treatment is often reduced.

Instead, dentists such as Dr. Edward Fritz may suggest the use of an oral appliance. Oral appliance therapy is a wonderful alternative that many patients prefer over a CPAP device. An oral appliance is similar to a special mouth guard that is worn at night. It realigns the bite and jaw while holding down the tongue. By doing this, patients can open their airways and get a better nights rest without the need for a bulky, uncomfortable CPAP machine.

Patients in and around the Gilbert area are encouraged to speak to a professional such as Dr. Edward Fritz to find out more about oral appliance therapy if they have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by their physician and are unhappy with the use of the CPAP device. At New Health Dental, we welcome new patients to our state-of-the-art facility to learn more about holistic dentistry and the options available for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

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