Sleep Apnea Treatment
Snoring may be more than just an annoyance. It may indicate signs of sleep apnea, where the body stops breathing during sleep due to an airway obstruction in the throat. Seek medical and dental treatment if you or someone you know has the following signs or symptoms of sleep apnea:
- Any observed breathing cessation during sleep
- Chronic snoring
- Feeling groggy, and excessively tired upon waking
- Forgetfulness
- Headaches upon waking
- Dry mouth upon waking
In Hillsboro, sleep apnea treatment is available from general dentist, Dr. James Miller. Patients who have had a professional sleep study are often placed on a CPAP (Continuous Positive Air Pressure) machine. CPAP patients often find the machine difficult to use, because of its cumbersome face mask and noisy operation. It also limits sleep positions. Dr. Miller offers patients who are unable to tolerate the CPAP, sleep apnea relief through a comfortable Thorton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) mouthguard which positions the lower jaw forward for maximum air intake.
The TAP appliance is a high quality, non-invasive therapy for snoring and sleep apnea. It is a great alternative to surgery and can assist breathing machines, such as CPAP. The TAP is a custom-made adjustable oral appliance made of durable, clear acrylic. You wear it while sleeping – it easily snaps over upper and lower teeth. It works by holding the lower jaw forward, preventing the tongue and throat tissue from collapsing or blocking the airway. Patients are able to adjust the appliance and it is easy to use, making it a more successful option for patients who have trouble tolerating the CPAP machine. We may recommend another sleep study be done with your new TAP appliance to make sure it is sufficiently opening your airway.
Discover your safest, most comfortable night’s sleep, with Hillsboro sleep apnea relief from general dentist, James A. Miller, DMD. Call for your consultation today!
