Sleep Apnea​

Sleep Apnea Treatment Serving Henderson & Las Vegas, NV

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that involves repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the sleep cycle. These interruptions, known as apneas, significantly impact your sleep quality and overall health. At Comprehensive Dental Care in Henderson, convenient for patients in Las Vegas, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea with advanced, patient-focused solutions that promote better sleep and health. Here’s what you need to know about sleep apnea and how we can help you manage this condition.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat fail to keep the airway open, despite efforts to breathe. There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and mixed. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type and is caused by a physical blockage, usually the collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. Central sleep apnea (CSA), involves the brain’s inability to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Mixed or complex sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central types.

OSA untreated can cause many health problems. The Mayo Clinic recognizes the following medical conditions can occur as a result: daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, increase your risk of recurrent heart attack, stroke and abnormal heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation. increases your risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. People with OSA might be more likely to have complications after major surgery because they’re prone to breathing problems, and are more likely to have abnormal results on liver function tests, and their livers are more likely to show signs of scarring (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease).

Common symptoms of OSA include:

• Loud snoring
• Episodes of breathing cessation during sleep
• Abrupt awakenings accompanied by shortness of breath
• Morning headache
• Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, such as depression or irritability

The dentist is often the first to spot the signs of sleep apnea because of its impact on oral health. 

Our Diagnostic Approach

At Comprehensive Dental Care, we begin with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. If OSA is suspected, we may recommend a sleep study, which can be conducted in the comfort of your own home or at a sleep clinic. This study will monitor your sleep, breathing patterns, blood oxygen levels, and other vital signs to accurately diagnose the type and severity of sleep apnea.

Treatment Options

Once diagnosed, Dr. Gregg Hendrickson and our team will discuss the most effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Treatment for OSA may include:

1. CPAP Therapy: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for moderate to severe OSA. The CPAP machine uses a hose connected to a mask or nosepiece to deliver constant and steady air pressure to help keep your airways open while you sleep.
2. Oral Appliance Therapy: For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apapa, or those who cannot tolerate CPAP, we offer oral appliance therapy. This involves wearing a custom-fit mouthpiece that advances the position of your jaw to help keep the airway open. Oral appliances are simple, portable, and easy to wear.
3. Surgery: In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to remove or reduce tissue in the throat, or to correct anatomical abnormalities that contribute to OSA.
4. Lifestyle Changes: In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms of OSA. We may recommend weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking, and altering sleep positions to better manage your condition.

Why Choose Comprehensive Dental Care for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

At Comprehensive Dental Care, we understand the complexities of OSA and the impact it can have on your life. Our holistic approach to treatment not only addresses the symptoms but also the underlying causes of sleep apnea, ensuring comprehensive care and management. Dr. Gregg Hendrickson’s expertise in dental sleep medicine, along with our state-of-the-art facilities, provide a unique advantage in sleep apnea treatment.

We are committed to providing personalized care that improves your sleep quality and overall health. Our team will work closely with you throughout your diagnosis and treatment, ensuring you understand your options and receive the support you need to manage your sleep apnea effectively.

Contact Us Today

If you suspect you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek treatment. Early intervention is key to preventing the serious health issues associated with this condition, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Contact Comprehensive Dental Care in Henderson today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve a better night’s sleep and a healthier life.