Sleep Apnea Treatment

Restore Better Sleep and Better Health

In some cases, making lifestyle changes or utilizing a CPAP machine can effectively manage sleep apnea. However, when these options fall short, your surgeon can perform a procedure to open your airway.

At Dental Implants & Oral Surgery of Longmont, we offer a comprehensive range of oral and maxillofacial surgical treatments, including solutions for sleep apnea, to patients in the Longmont, Colorado area. We strive to provide convenient access to the care you deserve. If you have received a referral for surgical intervention for your sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule your appointment with us.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. It affects approximately 12 million Americans, making it a prevalent yet serious health issue. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, and may also involve shallow breathing. Many individuals remain unaware they have sleep apnea, often feeling fatigued throughout the day despite what they believe is a restful night.

Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• A sensation of choking or gasping upon waking
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Insomnia
• A dry or sore throat in the morning
• Morning headaches
• Persistent daytime fatigue or drowsiness, even after a full night’s sleep

Surgical Treatment for Sleep Apnea

To confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea, a sleep study, or polysomnogram, may be conducted. Once diagnosed, a tailored treatment plan will be developed specifically for you. Patients experiencing mild to moderate sleep apnea might find relief through conservative measures, including lifestyle adjustments, a CPAP machine, or dental devices that keep the airway open during sleep. If these treatments prove ineffective, or if you have severe sleep apnea, surgical options may be more appropriate.

Several factors will influence the decision regarding surgical intervention for sleep apnea. You may be eligible for surgery if:

• Lifestyle changes have not resolved the problem. This could include losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, or sleeping on your side.
• A CPAP machine is uncomfortable or fails to provide relief.
• Dental appliances cause discomfort or pain.

Typically, surgical treatment for sleep apnea involves repositioning the upper and/or lower jaw to expand the airway. During your consultation at Dental Implants & Oral Surgery of Longmont, your oral surgeon will evaluate your situation and develop the most effective treatment strategy. This procedure can be performed in our office or a hospital setting, depending on your needs.