Why See a Dentist for Sleep Apnea? | Dentist in Washington, DC

If you’re constantly tired despite a full night’s sleep or your partner complains about your loud snoring, you might have sleep apnea. This common condition causes your breathing to stop and start repeatedly while you sleep.

These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds to over a minute, leaving you exhausted the next day. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (the most common) and central sleep apnea. But both can seriously impact your health if left untreated.

How Dentists Help Treat Sleep Apnea

You might be surprised to learn that dentists play a key role in treating sleep apnea. Since we specialize in mouths and jaw alignment, we can create custom-made oral appliances that keep your airway open at night. These comfortable mouthpieces gently reposition your jaw or tongue to prevent breathing interruptions. Unlike bulky CPAP machines, these devices are quiet, portable, and easy to use. Many patients find them much more comfortable.

We don’t just make the appliance and send you on your way at our Washington, DC, practice. We carefully monitor how it’s working, make adjustments, and work closely with your doctor to ensure you’re getting the best results. Regular check-ups help us track your progress and make any necessary changes to your treatment.

The Life-Changing Benefits of Dental Treatment

Choosing dental treatment for sleep apnea can transform your life in several ways:

Wake up feeling actually rested for the first time in years
Stop loud snoring (your partner will thank you)
Reduce daytime sleepiness so you can focus better
Lower your risk of serious health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease
Enjoy a treatment that’s comfortable and easy to travel with

Many of our patients tell us they wish they’d tried an oral appliance sooner. The improvement in their sleep quality and daily energy levels is that dramatic.

How We Spot Sleep Apnea During Dental Visits

You might not realize it, but we’re often the first to notice signs of sleep apnea during routine dental exams. We look for clues like worn-down teeth (from nighttime grinding), a small jaw, or scalloped edges on your tongue. We’ll ask about your sleep habits and any symptoms you’ve noticed. If we suspect sleep apnea, we’ll recommend a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis.

Catching sleep apnea early means we can prevent more serious health problems down the road. We’ll work with your doctor to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Teamwork for Better Sleep and Health

Treating sleep apnea works best when your healthcare providers work together. We regularly communicate with sleep specialists and other doctors to coordinate your care. While we handle the oral appliance therapy, your other providers might recommend additional treatments like lifestyle changes or CPAP therapy. This team approach means you get comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your condition.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Sleep Apnea Treatment

Not all dentists are equally experienced in treating sleep apnea. When choosing a provider, look for:

Specialized training in sleep apnea and oral appliance therapy
Experience treating patients with similar cases to yours
Willingness to work closely with your other doctors
Positive reviews from other sleep apnea patients
A practice that offers ongoing care and adjustments

At DC Precision Dentistry, we check all these boxes. Our team has helped countless patients in the DC area finally get the restful sleep they deserve. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain all your options, and create a personalized treatment plan.

Better Sleep Starts Here

If you’re tired of feeling tired all the time, we can help. Our comfortable oral appliances offer an effective alternative to CPAP machines, and we’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure your treatment works. Don’t spend another night struggling to breathe.