treatment options

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring is based on the physical exam, polysomnogram results, and medical history.  The most conservative treatment is behavioral in nature, including weight loss, body positioning (avoiding sleeping on the back), healthy eating and daily exercise, avoiding alcohol and sedatives at night, and good sleep hygiene (preparing properly for sleep).  Prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications should also be reviewed.

CPAP (continuous positive air pressure)

The most effective treatment presently is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure).  During the polysomnogram, a CPAP device will typically be placed on the patient to determine the pressure necessary to keep the pharynx open and breathing continuous.

surgery

Surgery is also an option but with limited immediate and long term success.  It is important to treat oral-pharyngal abnormalities such as enlarged tonsils and adenoids, deviated septums, nasal polyps, and jaw malformations.  Other surgeries preformed to aid nighttime breathing are uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) and laser assisted UPP.  

oral appliances

For those patients who find they cannot tolerate the CPAP or are non-compliant, an option would be a dental appliance, usually a mandibular advancement appliance.  At times, the oral appliance is a first choice. The decision as to which treatment is the most appropriate option will be decided in conjunction with you and your physician.

These appliances are very effective for people who snore without sleep apnea, mild to moderate sleep apnics, and will help those severe apnics who are noncompliant or can’t tolerate CPAP machines.  These appliances must be fabricated by dentists who are trained in selection, fitting, and monitoring dental devices.