Sleep Apnea Treatment
Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder that affects millions of Americans.
Sleep apnea presents itself as repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. This obstruction can be due to many causes. This obstruction leads to a decrease in an individual’s oxygen levels causing multiple arousals. Sleep apnea leads to many medical conditions. A few of these disorders are sleep deprivation, cardiac disorders, high blood pressure and altered mental abilities. Diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is accomplished through the use of a sleep study. Once a diagnosis is made, there are many treatments used to help minimize the sleep apnea. They include weight loss, UPPP, dental bite splints, C-PAP. There is also a group of individuals that respond well to upper and/or lower jaw surgery to decrease if not cure sleep apnea. Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea involves multiple medical specialists. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are an integral part of the medical team. Advancement of the upper and/or lower jaws has been shown to greatly improve sleep apnea in over 85-90% of individuals. Many times a patient can discontinue the use of a C-PAP machine. Dr. Thoman is excited about the opportunity to assist those who suffer from sleep apnea and are candidates for surgical care.