Sleep is of utmost importance to a healthy life and is often an overlooked routine. Studies have shown that both the time and quality of sleep can be leading factors for health, chronic disease, and other conditions. For many people, obstructed airways and breathing have a significant effect on sleep. Patients who experience sleep apnea can experience pauses in breathing many times per night.
Dr. Walter Mazzella offers sleep apnea treatment to help patients breathe easier at night and restore their health. Oftentimes, patients with sleep apnea are also at risk of developing heart health problems like heart disease and strokes.
Addressing sleep apnea symptoms sooner rather than later can also help minimize the chance of heart problems. In addition to treating sleep apnea, we provide restorative dentistry services to the public in Woodstock, Maryland, and the surrounding areas.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea
Patients with sleep apnea will often experience these symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Morning headaches
If you or a loved one finds themselves dealing with breathing pauses during sleep, call our office. If patients are male, over 40, or overweight, they may be more at risk of developing sleep apnea. These risk factors can impact the size of the airway.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Woodstock, MD
Our office provides treatment for patients who experience mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Take-Home Sleep Study
Dr. Mazzella now offers a take-home sleep study option for people who would like to improve their sleep quality, especially related to obstructive sleep apnea. This is a convenient alternative to testing in a sleep center, where you can gather informative data in the comfort of your own home for less cost. If you are interested in learning more about this home testing, we would be happy to discuss this option with you.
Oral Appliances
Patients with mild sleep apnea symptoms benefit from a custom oral appliance. We make sleep appliances using dental impressions. Wearing an oral appliance at night brings the lower jaw forward and opens up the airway. Sleep appliances are portable and easy to clean, making it a great alternative to a CPAP for patients with mild sleep apnea symptoms.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Sleep apnea can severely impact your overall health when untreated. Below are answers to some of patients’ most commonly asked questions.
What causes obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much during sleep, narrowing or blocking the airway. Contributing factors can include excess weight, a small jaw, enlarged tonsils, nasal congestion, or certain sleep positions. Age and genetics can also play a role in airway structure.
How dangerous is untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health risks. It increases your chances of developing high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and even depression. Chronic sleep deprivation also affects mood, focus, and overall quality of life. Getting timely treatment not only improves sleep but also protects long-term health.
Who is a good candidate for oral appliance therapy?
Oral appliance therapy is best suited for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. It’s also a good option for people who snore without having severe apnea. Dr. Mazzella can evaluate your airway and determine if you’re a suitable candidate. In some cases, it can even be combined with other treatments for optimal results.
How long does it take to see results?
Many patients notice an improvement in sleep quality and reduced snoring within the first few nights of using the appliance. For others, it may take a few weeks to fully adjust and experience consistent results. Follow-up sleep tests may be recommended to confirm that the therapy is effectively controlling your sleep apnea. Consistent nightly use is key to long-term success.
Will insurance cover oral appliance therapy?
In many cases, medical insurance (not dental insurance) covers oral appliance therapy for diagnosed sleep apnea. Coverage often depends on your plan and whether a sleep study confirms the diagnosis. We can assist with verifying benefits and submitting any required documentation. This helps make treatment more affordable and accessible.
When should I see a dentist about sleep apnea?
You should see a dentist trained in sleep medicine if you snore loudly, wake up gasping for air, or feel exhausted despite getting enough sleep. Early evaluation can prevent serious health complications and restore your quality of life. Dr. Mazzella can assess your airway, coordinate testing, and discuss effective treatment options.
Contact Us For Care Today
Do you think you may have symptoms of sleep apnea? Call (410) 559-9951 or request your next dental consultation with Dr. Mazzella online today.