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Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where a person’s breathing stops and starts repeatedly while they are sleeping. This can lead to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue. There are different types of sleep apnea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway becomes blocked during sleep. It’s important to seek medical help if you suspect you have sleep apnea, as it can have serious health consequences if left untreated.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon can play a role in treating sleep apnea, particularly in cases where the condition is related to anatomical issues in the mouth and throat. Here are some common treatment approaches an oral surgeon may use:
Oral appliances are custom-made devices that are worn during sleep to help keep the airway open. These devices are designed to reposition the jaw, tongue, and soft tissues of the throat to prevent obstruction of the airway. Oral surgeons can assess the patient’s oral anatomy and fit them with the appropriate oral appliance.
This surgical procedure involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws forward to enlarge the airway and reduce obstruction during sleep. Oral surgeons perform this procedure to increase the space in the throat and alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Oral surgeons may perform procedures to reduce the size of the soft palate or stiffen it to prevent it from collapsing and obstructing the airway during sleep. Techniques such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or palatal implants may be used for this purpose.
This surgical procedure involves advancing the genioglossus muscle, which is responsible for controlling the position of the tongue. By moving this muscle forward, oral surgeons can help prevent the tongue from collapsing backward and blocking the airway during sleep.
It’s important to note that the appropriate treatment for sleep apnea depends on various factors, including the severity of the condition, the patient’s anatomy, and their individual preferences. Dr. James works closely with sleep specialists, ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeons, and other healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.
During your consultation with Dr. James regarding sleep apnea, you will be asked to provide a detailed health history, if already completed he will review your sleep study, a 3D X-ray will be taken to assess you face, jaw and airway anatomy, and digital impressions will be taken of your teeth. After a thorough review of your records, symptoms and information collected at the consultation visit will be used by Dr. James to develop a comprehensive non-surgical or surgical plan to help address your sleep apnea.
