If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea by a medical doctor, speak with Dr. Erekson about sleep apnea treatment options. Our caring dentist and team offer oral appliances to help you breathe easily at night and get the rest you need. Call Mountain Gate Dental today at 406-442-5930 to schedule your appointment and learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Helena, Montana.
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. One of the most common forms, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the airway becomes blocked due to the tongue relaxing backward or tissues collapsing in the throat. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to significant health risks, including high blood pressure, heart disease and chronic fatigue, affecting both your physical and mental wellbeing.
Sleep apnea requires diagnosis by a sleep physician. If you are experiencing symptoms, our dentist encourages you to consult both a medical professional and our office to explore your treatment options. Recognizing the signs of sleep apnea is an essential first step toward addressing the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Persistent daytime fatigue
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Morning headaches
- A sore or dry throat upon waking
For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, a customized oral appliance may be an effective treatment option. This device is designed to fit comfortably over your teeth and works by maintaining an open airway during sleep. It can prevent the tongue from blocking the air passage or reposition the jaw to ensure airflow is not obstructed. Oral appliances are noninvasive, easy to use and can significantly improve your quality of sleep and overall health.
Addressing sleep apnea is vital for improving not only your sleep but also your long-term health. Our team is here to support you with professional care tailored to your needs. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, do not wait to seek treatment. We are committed to helping you regain restful nights and better health. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can assist with your sleep apnea treatment.