Rest Easier with Professional Sleep Apnea Treatment
At Tropical Smiles Dental, our experienced dentist provide effective, non-surgical solutions to help patients manage sleep apnea and enjoy healthier, more restful sleep. Dr. Melissa Nitta take a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment, working closely with each patient to create a plan that supports both oral health and overall well-being.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These interruptions reduce oxygen flow to the brain and body, often causing loud snoring, gasping, or frequent waking. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the soft tissues of the throat relax and block the airway during sleep.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, fatigue, heart disease, weight gain and difficulty concentrating. Our dentist work to identify the underlying causes of airway obstruction and develop comfortable, customized treatment plans.
When Is Treatment Recommended?
Our dentist recommend treatment for sleep apnea if you experience symptoms such as:
- Loud, chronic snoring or gasping during sleep
- Frequent waking and daytime fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Irritability or mood changes related to poor sleep
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea through a sleep study or are showing signs of airway obstruction, our dentist can provide safe, effective options to help manage your condition.
The Treatment Process
At Tropical Smiles Dental, we begin with a comprehensive consultation and medical history review to understand your symptoms and determine the best course of care. Our dentist may collaborate with your physician or sleep specialist for diagnostic confirmation.
Treatment for sleep apnea often involves the use of a custom oral appliance—a comfortable, dentist-designed device that gently repositions the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. Unlike bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are small, quiet and easy to wear.
Your appliance will be crafted from a detailed digital impression of your teeth for a precise, secure fit. Once completed, our dentist will adjust it to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness. Most patients experience improved sleep quality and reduced snoring within the first few nights of use.
Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Treating sleep apnea can transform both your health and quality of life. By restoring normal breathing during sleep, you can enjoy better rest and renewed energy throughout the day.
Benefits include:
- Improved oxygen flow and uninterrupted sleep
- Reduced daytime fatigue and snoring
- Lower risk of heart disease and high blood pressure
- Enhanced concentration and mood stability
- Comfortable, portable alternative to CPAP
Our dentist and team in Kailua Kona, Hawaii, are dedicated to helping patients sleep better and live healthier through customized, professional care.
Call 808-329-1715 today to schedule your consultation with our dentist and learn how sleep apnea treatment can restore restful, rejuvenating sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What causes sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is commonly caused by airway obstruction due to soft palate collapse, enlarged tonsils, or excess tissue in the throat.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Yes. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to cardiovascular issues, chronic fatigue, high blood pressure and other serious health risks.
Are oral appliances effective for sleep apnea?
Yes. Custom oral appliances designed by our dentist can effectively reduce airway obstruction and minimize snoring in many patients.
Is the treatment comfortable?
Most patients find oral appliance therapy very comfortable and much easier to use than traditional CPAP machines.