If you struggle with poor sleep, loud snoring, or chronic fatigue, sleep apnea may be the cause. This condition affects your breathing at night and can seriously impact your health if left unaddressed.
At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, CO, Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg help patients manage sleep apnea with customized solutions rooted in decades of orthodontic experience.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is marked by continuous breathing interruptions while you sleep. The most prevalent form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the airway becomes blocked due to the throat muscles relaxing excessively. This blockage can lead to severe snoring, choking or gasping sounds, and frequent disturbances throughout the night – often without any memory of waking up.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to:
- Daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
- Irritability and mood changes
- An increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Recognizing symptoms and seeking prompt treatment is essential for better rest and long-term health.
How Orthodontic Care Can Help
Sleep apnea treatment at Advanced Orthodontic Care focuses on addressing the structural issues that may contribute to airway obstruction.
Some patients benefit from continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which deliver pressurized air through a mask to keep the airways open and prevent breathing pauses. However, others prefer a more comfortable, less cumbersome option.
Oral appliance therapy involves a custom-made device that fits over the teeth and pulls the lower jaw and tongue forward. This repositioning keeps the airway open while you sleep and allows for easier breathing throughout the night.
Oral Appliance Therapy Candidates
Oral appliance therapy is not ideal for everyone, but it can be useful for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Here are some other criteria you should meet to be considered a good candidate:
- You snore loudly (or your partner complains about loud snoring).
- You often wake up feeling tired.
- You experience frequent nighttime awakenings.
- You prefer a non-invasive, portable alternative to CPAP.
- You have difficulty tolerating masks or machines.
- You primarily breathe through your nose at night.
- You do not have active TMJ disorders, limited jaw mobility, or significant dental issues (like loose teeth or advanced gum disease).
Why Choose Advanced Orthodontic Care?
At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, your comfort and convenience are top priorities. We know that poor sleep affects every aspect of your life, so we strive to make the treatment process as smooth as possible.
Dr. Robert Rudman founded the practice in 1999. Throughout his career, he has been published in numerous orthodontic journals and has lectured in cities worldwide. Dr. Jeff Birg is a certified specialist in orthodontics who brings a unique perspective to every appointment.
Our patients appreciate our flexible scheduling and commitment to customized care. We understand that everyone is different and will tailor your sleep apnea management plan to your anatomy, lifestyle, and health history.
Get Ready for More Restful Sleep
Don’t let sleep apnea control your nights – or your days. At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, we provide the tools and support you need to breathe easier and sleep better.
Call or text 303-331-0222 to arrange an appointment with Dr. Rudman or Dr. Birg. We’re here to help you wake up feeling rested and refreshed.
