Sleep Apnea Therapy - Chevy Chase, MD
I'm Worried About Snoring & Sleep Apnea
When a patient struggles to breathe easily while sleeping, the cause can often be sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form and affects millions of people in the United States. At Avant Dentistry, Dr. Yu provides safe and effective solutions to help patients sleep better and breathe easier. Contact us today to learn if you are a candidate for sleep apnea therapy in Chevy Chase, MD.
Why Choose Avant Dentistry for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
- Member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine
- Dentist with 15+ Years of Experience
- Advanced Solutions to Improve Sleep
Sleep Apnea Treatment
As a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Dr. Yu provides safe and effective sleep apnea treatment for individuals struggling to breathe freely due to an obstruction in their airways. Offering at-home testing and various sleep appliances, she also embraces what is known as The Seattle Protocol.
This unique system, in collaboration with at-home testing, can help Dr. Yu determine how to restore the mouth for better oral and overall health. It is a six-step process designed to help patients with OSA.
Patients can begin to embrace a better quality of life thanks to the renewed sleep and easy breathing experienced after undergoing treatment from Dr. Yu.
At-Home Sleep Test
Using the Ares™ Home Sleep Test, Dr. Yu will send you home with a device that you will wear for a few nights. Using sophisticated sensors, the device will gather various data points concerning your sleep breathing patterns. Not only is it easy to use and comfortable to wear, but it’s also highly accurate and provides comprehensive data that can be used to create a formal diagnosis.
Sleep Appliances
Dr. Yu never wants patients to feel hopeless about their sleep apnea situation, which is why she is pleased to offer both the Somnomed’s dorsal fin and Herbst appliances. Both are worn in the mouth while sleeping to help keep the airway open. While the former pushes the jaw forward as well as the “fins,” the latter is a mandibular appliance that allows for lateral and vertical movement without affecting the device.
The Herbst Appliance is also commonly used for orthodontic or TMJ therapy.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Does Everyone Who Snores Have Sleep Apnea?
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and not every with sleep apnea snores. However, loud snoring is one of the most common and notable symptoms of sleep apnea. If you or your sleeping partner notice that you have been snoring, this is a good reason to see a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. To determine if sleep apnea is the reason for your snoring, you will need to undergo a sleep study. If you receive a positive diagnosis, steps can be taken to help you get the quality sleep you need to thrive during the day.
Will My Sleep Apnea Go Away If I Lose Weight?
The short answer is: It’s possible! Being overweight is a major risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea. Excess weight and tissue can block the airway, so losing this weight can reduce this harmful tissue. However, there is a possibility that you could continue to have sleep apnea after reaching a healthy weight. You will need to complete another sleep test to figure out if you still have the disorder. Other factors, including the shape of your airway, genetics, age, and muscle tone, can also contribute to sleep apnea. Because of this, weight loss could improve symptoms significantly, but it doesn’t always eliminate the condition completely.
Will My Oral Appliance Therapy Make CPAP Treatment Unneeded?
CPAP works by physically forcing air through the airway with a mask that is worn during sleep. Only about half of people who are prescribed CPAP therapy actually use it as directed. This is often because patients find it uncomfortable and impractical. In some cases, an oral appliance can replace CPAP therapy. In severe cases of sleep apnea, a combination could be needed. We use customized oral appliances to push your lower jaw forward, keeping your airway open.
How Should I Maintain My Oral Appliance?
It is crucial that you keep your oral appliance clean to reduce your likelihood of developing cavities, gum disease, and other infections. You should gently brush and rinse your oral appliance every morning. When you aren’t wearing it, keep it in its case. Specialized denture cleaners can also be used to keep your oral appliance clean and fresh. Proper cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and odors that can develop over time. Following these simple care instructions can help to extend the life of your appliance and ensure that it remains comfortable to wear. Regular maintenance is an important part of protecting both your oral health and the effectiveness of your treatment.