Sleep Apnea Treatment in Grafton & Auburn

If you have recently been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, or still have not found relief from your sleep breathing disorder, it is time to find a solution. Dr. Kern treats snoring and sleep apnea in Grafton with the removable oral appliance. It is a small, portable device that keeps your upper airway clear during sleep. Patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea and those who have not found success with other treatments may find the relief they need with removable oral appliance therapy.

About Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The most common form of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs due to the partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. The tongue and lower jaw become so relaxed that they collapse, impeding the smooth flow of air through the upper airway. Snoring and fitful sleep occur as a result.

OSA sufferers may have their sleep interrupted hundreds of times each night -- something they may not remember the next day. People dealing with the common sleep breathing disorder often wake up groggy and irritable after what they thought was a full night’s sleep.

Without successful treatment, sleep apnea can take a real toll on an otherwise healthy body. The condition reduces the amount of oxygen the brain receives, and over time, it adds up to a significant deficit. Sleep apnea has been linked to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and even premature death. Treating your sleep apnea is crucial -- your very life depends on it.

Treating Sleep Apnea

One common treatment for OSA is with CPAP therapy, or continuous positive airway pressure. This method keeps the airway open by forcing air into the lungs through a small nasal mask. Unfortunately, the CPAP system is loud, bulky, and difficult to travel with. Patients report having trouble sleeping with the mask, and their partners may find their own sleep interrupted by the noise of the machine. Most patients will forego treatment while traveling to avoid the hassle of packing the CPAP.

While CPAP has undoubtedly helped many patients find relief from their sleep apnea, many others are what we call “CPAP intolerant.” Fortunately, there is another option.

Find Relief With Removable Oral Appliance Therapy

The removable oral appliance is a small, portable device you wear during sleep. It fits sort of like a sports guard, or an orthodontic retainer. Once in the mouth, it keeps the upper airway open by holding the jaw in a forward position. The oral appliance is customized to fit your unique oral anatomy. It is a comfortable, silent, and convenient alternative to CPAP therapy.

To fit you with your oral appliance, Dr. Kern will take impressions of your teeth and surrounding oral structures. Then, considering which type of appliance will suit you best, he will plan for the manufacture of your device. Once it’s ready, you can begin treatment immediately, breathing easily throughout the night once again.

Get a Full Night’s Sleep Today

Over time, the effects of poor sleep are serious. If you have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea or have not found the relief you seek with CPAP therapy, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kern. Oral appliance therapy may be the answer you have been hoping for -- let’s discuss your unique case today!