Sleep Apnea Treatment at Barbara Young DDS

sleep apnea dental office dentist in San Diego

Your Path to Better Sleep Starts Here

If you struggle with poor sleep, chronic fatigue, or loud snoring, you may be living with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This common but serious condition affects millions of people and can have a significant impact on your overall health and quality of life. At Barbara Young DDS, we offer effective, non-invasive sleep apnea treatment through custom oral appliance therapy. As your trusted dentist in San Diego, Dr. Barbara Young provides personalized care to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake up feeling refreshed.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to a minute or longer and may occur dozens of times per hour. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea, happens when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much, causing a temporary blockage of the airway.

When your brain senses the lack of oxygen, it briefly wakes you to reopen the airway. While you may not fully remember these awakenings, they prevent you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep your body needs.

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Many people with sleep apnea don’t realize they have it. Common warning signs include:

  • Loud, chronic snoring
  • Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
  • Frequent waking during the night
  • Morning headaches
  • Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

If you or a loved one recognizes these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.

How Can a Dentist Help with Sleep Apnea?

While sleep apnea is often treated by sleep specialists, your dentist in San Diego can play a critical role in managing the condition. Dr. Young offers oral appliance therapy, a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional CPAP machines. These custom-fitted devices are worn during sleep and work by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. Oral appliances are:

  • Compact and easy to travel with
  • Quiet and discreet
  • Comfortable for long-term use
  • Effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea

At our dental office, Dr. Young takes precise impressions to create an appliance that fits your mouth perfectly. The device is adjustable, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Why Choose Barbara Young DDS for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Choosing the right provider for sleep apnea treatment is essential. At Barbara Young DDS, we combine advanced technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Dr. Young has extensive experience in oral appliance therapy and works closely with sleep physicians to ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care.

Our dental office is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment tools, and we take the time to educate each patient about their condition and treatment options. We believe informed patients make the best decisions for their health.

The Treatment Process

Your journey to better sleep starts with a consultation. During your visit, Dr. Young will review your symptoms, medical history, and any sleep study results you may have. If oral appliance therapy is recommended, we’ll take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a custom device.

Once your appliance is ready, we’ll schedule a fitting appointment to ensure it’s comfortable and functioning properly. Follow-up visits allow us to make any necessary adjustments and monitor your progress. Many patients notice improvements in their sleep quality within just a few nights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is oral appliance therapy covered by insurance?

Many medical insurance plans cover oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea, especially if you have a diagnosis from a sleep study. Our team can help verify your benefits and assist with claims.

How is an oral appliance different from a CPAP machine?

Unlike CPAP machines, which use air pressure to keep the airway open, oral appliances physically reposition the jaw. They’re quieter, easier to travel with, and often more comfortable for patients who have trouble tolerating CPAP.

Will I need a sleep study before treatment?

In most cases, yes. A sleep study helps confirm the diagnosis and severity of sleep apnea. If you haven’t had one, Dr. Young can refer you to a trusted sleep specialist.

Can snoring be treated without a sleep apnea diagnosis?

Yes. Even if you don’t have sleep apnea, oral appliances can help reduce or eliminate snoring by keeping the airway open during sleep.

Reclaim Your Sleep and Your Health

Sleep apnea doesn’t have to control your life. With the right treatment, you can enjoy restful sleep, improved energy, and better overall health. If you’ve been searching for effective sleep apnea solutions, Barbara Young DDS is here to help. Contact our San Diego dental office today to schedule your sleep apnea consultation. Let Dr. Young help you breathe easier and sleep better starting tonight