Personalized Sleep Apnea Treatment – Restful Nights Start Here. Expert Care in Lancaster, PA
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Finding the right treatment for you, no matter what.
Sleep Apnea Solutions at Howard Orthodontics focuses on oral device therapy but understands the vast array of treatments available in the industry, including sleep apnea testing near Lancaster, PA. Our team will find the proper treatment for you.
Dental sleep medicine recognizes care as more than an appliance or procedure. Our treatments focus on why you are experiencing sleep apnea and treating it directly.
Oral Device Therapy
Oral Device Therapy involves using custom-fitted oral appliances to address sleep-related issues like snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. These devices, like the OrthoApnea NOA, work by repositioning the lower jaw during sleep, preventing upper airway collapse, and promoting optimal breathing. This non-invasive approach provides a comfortable solution without the need for surgical intervention.
Our team custom-builds these devices as a treatment for sleep apnea. Our approach to dental sleep medicine focuses on oral device therapy.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet, as excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction.
- Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: Refrain from consuming alcohol and sedatives, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, to reduce muscle relaxation in the airway.
- Sleep Position: Sleep on your side rather than your back to prevent the tongue and soft palate from collapsing backward, reducing the risk of airway blockage.
- Elevating Your Head: Use extra pillows or a wedge pillow to elevate the head during sleep, which may improve airflow and breathing.
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Establish and adhere to a consistent sleep schedule, promoting better sleep hygiene and contributing to overall respiratory health.
These lifestyle modifications can complement oral devices and provide a holistic approach to addressing sleep apnea.
Other Sleep Apnea Treatments
Our clinic focuses on oral device therapy, often paired with lifestyle changes and modifications, and is a leading provider of sleep apnea testing in Lancaster, PA. Our team has found that these treatments offer the best outcomes for most patients.
However, there are some other sleep apnea treatments available on the market that you may be aware of:
- Inspire Therapy: A surgically implanted device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to control tongue movement and prevent airway collapse during sleep.
- Nasal Strips: External adhesive strips are applied to the nose to improve nasal airflow and reduce snoring.
- Surgery: Various surgical procedures may be considered, including uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), genioglossus advancement (GA), or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), to address anatomical issues contributing to sleep apnea.
These treatments are only appropriate in rare or severe conditions. Our team will be transparent with you during the consultation, testing, and diagnosis process about what the correct treatment is for your unique anatomical needs.