Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Treatment at Chatswood Dental Associates

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a type of sleeping disorder that affects almost a million Australians. It’s characterised by pauses in breathing that last 10 seconds or more, causing slight rousing throughout the night.

Although a person with OSA does not remember their multiple awakenings, the interrupted sleep can cause serious health problems. OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and is also a frequent contributor to work- and driving-related accidents.

What Causes OSA?

While you sleep, all of your muscles relax, including those that control your tongue and throat. The soft tissue at the back of your mouth may sag, narrowing and constricting the airway.

This condition often presents as snoring, which is certainly an annoyance but not everyone who snores has OSA. If, however, the snoring is accompanied by gasping and choking sounds, OSA should be suspected.

Sometimes the only outer sign of OSA is a constant feeling of exhaustion or fatigue throughout the day, even if you appear to have had plenty of sleep.

Diagnosing OSA

If you snore or are excessively tired throughout the day – or your partner reports pauses in your breathing while you sleep – ask for a referral to a sleep physician. This specialist will conduct the necessary tests to determine whether OSA is present as well as its severity.

Treating OSA

One of the most effective treatments for OSA is C-PAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy. This machine is the first line therapy for patients with moderate to severe OSA.

For mild OSA, an oral appliance like SomnoMed may be more appropriate. This dental sleep device is worn in the mouth while you sleep and even allows full mouth functionality. This means that unlike other dental appliances, you’ll still be able to talk, drink and open or close your mouth as usual.

The construction of the SomnoMed apnoea device improves airflow while you sleep, is comfortable to wear and reduces the severity of disturbed breathing episodes. Each device can be adjusted for customised positioning to effectively treat your needs.

SomnoMed is successful in cases of mild OSA. Oral appliances can also help reduce snoring not associated with OSA, allowing you and your partner to have a more restful sleep. If you snore, however, it’s important to speak to your doctor to be sure to rule out sleep apnoea.

* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Treatment Chatswood NSW | (02) 9412 4488