Sleep is the cornerstone of health, yet its quality can be compromised by conditions often undetected, like sleep apnea. Mill Creek Family Dentistry stands at the forefront of addressing this hidden ailment that silently disrupts the lives of millions. Statistics reveal a startling reality: nearly 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with 80 percent of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) cases going undiagnosed. This isn’t just about restless nights or loud snoring; it’s a matter of health and well-being, deeply intertwined with the quality of your daily life.
Our dedicated Mill Creek, WA team is here to ensure your sleep is healthy, restful, and free of the disruptions caused by OSA. Read below to learn more!
Services provided by Dr. Bill Mulliken
Why Is Sleep Apnea Treatment Important?
Untreated sleep apnea poses serious health risks. It’s a doorway to hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Additionally, the fatigue caused by disrupted sleep can result in decreased productivity, mood swings, and a heightened risk of accidents. The importance of treating this condition cannot be overstated; it’s not merely a nighttime inconvenience but a critical factor in your overall health condition.
What Types Of Treatment Are Available?
There are several paths to mitigating and managing sleep apnea, ranging from lifestyle changes and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines to surgical interventions. At Mill Creek Family Dentistry, we offer a specific, non-invasive treatment: oral appliance therapy.
Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-fitted device, much like a mouthguard, to maintain an open, unobstructed airway in the throat during sleep. This appliance is designed to either move the lower jaw forward slightly or hold the tongue in a different position, therefore keeping the airway open. This method is particularly effective for those with mild to moderate OSA and for patients who find CPAP machines uncomfortable.
The Oral Appliance Therapy Advantage
Our focus on oral appliance therapy comes from its simplicity, ease of use, and effectiveness. Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are quiet, portable, and simple to care for. They offer a stealthy solution to sleep apnea, one that slips into your nightly routine without the need for significant lifestyle alterations.
At our practice, we offer The Avant device – an FDA-approved solution that has been scientifically proven to reduce the episodes of sleep apnea in patients. This patented appliance is designed to accommodate adjustments and is highly customizable to fit your mouth and deliver the best possible results. By using The Avant, patients can expect:
- Improved restful sleep
- Enhanced cognitive performance during the day
- Reduced fatigue and improved concentration
- Decrease in snoring
Not only does this device provide relief from sleep apnea, but The Avant has also shown promise in reducing the effects of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Lifestyle Changes For Better Sleep
Alongside oral appliance therapy, we encourage patients to make lifestyle adjustments that can further improve sleep quality:
- Weight management: Excess weight can exacerbate sleep apnea, so maintaining a healthy weight can reduce symptoms.
- Positional therapy: Sleeping on your side can prevent the tongue and palate from falling back, which can block the airway.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both can relax the muscles of the throat, increasing the risk of airway obstruction.
- Regular exercise: Strengthening the heart and improving overall health can reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
Partnering With Patients For Personalized Treatment
At Mill Creek Family Dentistry, we believe in a partnership approach. Our experts work closely with patients to identify the best treatment plan, taking into account the uniqueness of each case. We are committed to guiding you through the process, from the initial consultation to the follow-up care post-treatment. It is a journey we embark on together, ensuring that you are comfortable, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Choose Health, Choose Rest, Choose Mill Creek Family Dentistry
Choosing the right practice for your sleep apnea treatment is paramount. At Mill Creek Family Dentistry, we don’t just offer a service; we offer a commitment to your health and a promise for better sleep. Our expertise in oral appliance therapy, coupled with a compassionate, patient-centric approach, sets us apart. We are here to not only improve your nights but also to energize your days, enhance your well-being, and transform your life. Call today to schedule an appointment!
Services provided by Dr. Bill Mulliken