Sleep Apnea Treatment – San Marcos, TX
Stopping Sleep Interruptions
Snoring is not just an inconvenience for those sleeping near or next to you; it can cause real health problems, such as sleep apnea, which means you stop breathing during sleep for short periods of time. The airway collapses, blocking airflow into the lungs. This obstruction persists until the person unconsciously closes the jaw, returning the tongue and throat to a normal position. Dr. Donnelly may be able to prevent snoring and sleep apnea with a custom-made oral appliance, so call us today if you need help sleeping and breathing better.
Why Choose San Marcos Gentle Dental for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
- Expertly Customized Oral Appliances
-
Focus on
Quality Dentistry - State-of-the-Art Technology
What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
- Chronic sleepiness
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heartburn
- Morning headaches
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Impotence
Oral Appliance Therapy
To prevent sleep apnea, Dr. Donnelly recommends an oral appliance or “snoreguard” known as the Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP). The TAP is a snoreguard that is intended to reduce or alleviate nighttime snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by using an upper tray that fits over the upper teeth and a lower tray that fits over the lower teeth. A hook mechanism attached to the upper tray hooks around a bar that is attached to the lower tray and positions the lower jaw forward, preventing the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway.
The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) is based on the same principle as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, CPR. The airway must be opened to allow air to pass through the throat. A constricted or collapsed airway causes snoring or sleep apnea.
Benefits of an oral appliance include:
- Optimal positioning: The TAP holds the lower jaw in a forward position so that it does not fall open during the night and cause the airway to collapse.
- Improved breathing: The TAP maintains a clear airway to reduce snoring and allow constant airflow.
- Comfortable and patient-friendly: The TAP is adjustable to allow maximum comfort and effectiveness.
- Custom-made: The TAP will form to the contours of your mouth to prevent changes in teeth position or mouth structures.