Mild sleep apnea occurs in 1 in every 5 adults, while moderate sleep apnea still occurs in 1 in every 15 adults . Apnea is a very common issue, however it can also cause many serious health complications. People suffering from sleep apnea often have issues with heightened blood pressure, daytime fatigue, depression, headaches, memory problems, and sleep-deprived spouses.
The CPAP machine is the most well-known (and perhaps the most common) of all sleep apnea treatments. It can be very effective in treating some cases of sleep apnea. However, additional types of treatments are necessary for the vastly different cases and severity of sleep apnea.
Recent studies have shown that a jaw surgery which moves the upper and lower jaw forward, decreasing the patient’s breathing workload, is proven to be very effective in minimizing the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. While most people would rather avoid surgery, this can eliminate the need for further apnea treatments.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, be sure to talk over treatment options with your general physician as well as your dentist. You may be a candidate for an oral mouth piece to help open your airway, avoiding the CPAP machine. Call us at 410-876-2096 to discuss your sleep apnea.