Sleep apnea is more than just a snoring problem. It’s a serious medical condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly throughout the night, preventing you from getting the deep, restorative sleep your body needs.
Understanding the Condition
When you have sleep apnea, the soft tissues in your throat relax and block your airway while you sleep. Your brain notices the drop in oxygen and briefly wakes you up to restart breathing. These interruptions can happen dozens or even hundreds of times each night, though you might not remember waking up. Over time, this pattern takes a serious toll on your health.
The condition is classified into three main types. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form, caused by physical blockage of your airway. Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain fails to send the proper signals to control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome combines elements of both types of sleep apnea. Dr. Brent Nail specializes in treating obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that often responds well to oral appliance therapy.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Many patients visit our practice near Watkinsville and Athens after a partner complains about their snoring or after years of feeling exhausted despite getting enough sleep. Common symptoms include loud, chronic snoring, gasping or choking sounds during sleep, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness. You might also notice difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat.
Some people experience these symptoms for years without connecting them to a sleep disorder. They assume everyone feels tired during the day or that snoring is just a normal part of aging. The truth is that these signs indicate a condition that requires professional attention.
Health Risks That Demand Action
Untreated sleep apnea does more damage than just making you tired. The repeated drops in oxygen levels and constant sleep disruptions significantly stress your cardiovascular system. This increases your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The condition also contributes to weight gain, which can make sleep apnea worse in a frustrating cycle.
Beyond physical health, the mental and emotional impacts are substantial. Chronic sleep deprivation affects your memory, decision-making abilities, and emotional regulation. Many patients report feeling irritable or depressed before seeking sleep apnea treatment in Watkinsville. The fatigue also increases your risk of accidents while driving or operating machinery.
How Oral Appliances Work
Dr. Nail offers custom oral appliances as an effective alternative to CPAP therapy. These devices resemble mouthguards or retainers, but they’re specifically designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. The appliance gently repositions your lower jaw forward, which prevents the soft tissues in your throat from collapsing and blocking your breathing.
The treatment process starts with a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll review your sleep study results if you have them, or we can help coordinate a sleep study if needed. A formal diagnosis from a sleep physician is important before starting treatment. Once we confirm that you’re a good candidate for oral appliance therapy, Dr. Brent Nail will use our advanced technology to create precise impressions of your teeth.
Custom Fit for Maximum Comfort
Every oral appliance we create is custom-made for your mouth using digital impressions from our iTero Digital Scanner. This technology captures incredibly detailed 3D images without the mess and discomfort of traditional impression materials. The accuracy of these digital scans ensures your appliance fits comfortably and works effectively.
Your appliance will be adjustable, allowing Dr. Nail to fine-tune the positioning to find the perfect balance between comfort and effectiveness. Most patients adjust to wearing their appliance within a week or two. The device is small, portable, and quiet, making it easy to travel with and use consistently.
Advantages Over CPAP Machines
While CPAP machines are effective for many patients, they may not be the right solution for everyone. The masks can feel claustrophobic, the machines are noisy, and the equipment is bulky for travel. Many people struggle to use their CPAP consistently, which means they’re not getting the treatment they need.
Oral appliances offer several benefits:
- No electricity required
- Completely silent operation
- Easy to pack for travel
- No mask covering your face
- Simple to clean and maintain
- Comfortable for side sleepers
The best treatment is the one you’ll actually use every night. If you’ve tried CPAP therapy and found it uncomfortable or difficult to stick with, an oral appliance might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
Working With Your Medical Team
Dr. Nail works closely with sleep physicians to ensure you receive comprehensive care. After you start using your oral appliance, your sleep doctor may recommend a follow-up sleep study to verify that the device effectively manages your sleep apnea. We’ll also schedule regular check-ups to monitor how well your appliance fits and make any necessary adjustments.
Take Control of Your Sleep Health
You don’t have to accept poor sleep and constant exhaustion as your reality. Athens Oconee Dentistry offers personalized sleep apnea treatment in Watkinsville and Athens that suits your lifestyle and helps you breathe more easily at night. Dr. Brent Nail and our caring team are ready to evaluate your needs and discuss whether oral appliance therapy is right for you.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation. Better sleep and improved health are within reach. Visit athensgeneraldentist.com or call us to start your journey toward restful nights and energized days.