Sleep Apnea Treatment in Virginia Beach, VA

What Should I Know About Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea in Virginia Beach is a disorder that causes temporary breathing interruptions, snoring, morning headaches, and other symptoms. While this condition can strike at any age, it’s most common in adults over 40. If you suspect signs of this disorder, call our office to schedule a consultation.

What Are the Most Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

If you or your partner are experiencing the following signs and symptoms, it may be time to consult with a dentist:

• Loud, constant snoring
• Choking and gasping for air during sleep
• Headaches in the morning
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
• Drowsiness during the day

How Do You Get Sleep Apnea?

When you’re awake, the muscles of your throat are stiff, allowing air to flow to your lungs. However, these muscles relax while you sleep, and sometimes airflow becomes restricted. Here are some of the most common sleep apnea causes:

• Carrying too much weight
• Being male
• Having a family history of apnea and other sleep disorders
• A neck measurement of over 16 inches

What Sleep Apnea Treatment Options are Available?

Mild cases of apnea can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or learning to sleep on your side. For many patients, a sleep apnea mouth guard is an effective treatment option, as it promotes airflow while you sleep. However, severe cases of the disorder may require surgery to correct the soft palate muscles. Don’t let poor sleep quality affect your life – call us today to find out more about our treatment options.

Dental Appliances

How Does an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea Work?

A sleep apnea mouthpiece is similar to a mouthguard worn for sports or an orthodontic retainer. It is custom-made to fit your mouth, and it is worn only while sleeping. The device keeps the jaw and tongue forward, expanding the airway and promoting better breathing. When worn each night, many patients see a reduction in their symptoms.

What Is the Cost of Oral Appliance Therapy?

Many factors determine the cost of an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Virginia Beach. These include the type of device chosen, the number of follow-up visits needed, and your insurance coverage. Your dentist will provide an estimate of the total out-of-pocket costs.

What Advantages Does Oral Appliance Therapy Offer?

Choosing oral appliance therapy provides a host of benefits. First, the devices are completely portable and easy to clean, making them ideal for travel. Another advantage of oral appliance therapy is that it relieves apnea symptoms without invasive surgery. Lastly, an oral appliance can greatly improve your sleep quality, allowing you to enjoy more energy throughout the day. To find out whether oral appliance therapy is right for you, call our office to schedule an appointment.

Will My Insurance Plan Cover Oral Appliance Therapy?

Most insurance companies consider a sleep apnea appliance medically necessary, so they will provide full or partial coverage. However, every plan offers different benefits, making it necessary to contact your provider before receiving treatment. If you have additional questions after speaking with your provider, please contact our office. Our friendly staff members are happy to assist you.