Sleep Apnea Treatment in Virginia Beach, VA

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when airway tissues relax and block airflow.

Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Chronic fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating

Early diagnosis and proper treatment significantly improve long-term health outcomes.

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

You may benefit from evaluation if you experience:

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth upon waking
• Daytime fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability

A formal sleep study is required for diagnosis. We collaborate with physicians and sleep specialists to confirm obstructive sleep apnea before beginning treatment.

How Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea

At Indian River Dental, we provide custom oral appliance therapy for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

What Is an Oral Appliance?

An oral appliance is a custom-made device worn during sleep. It gently repositions the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open and reduce obstruction.

Oral appliance therapy is part of our comprehensive Implant & Surgical Dentistry in Virginia Beach services, reflecting our broader focus on airway health and oral function.

Oral Appliance vs. CPAP

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure):

• Uses air pressure to keep airway open
• Highly effective but sometimes uncomfortable
• Requires mask and machine

Oral Appliance Therapy:

• Small, custom-fit device
• Quiet and portable
• No external machinery
• Often easier to tolerate

For patients who struggle with CPAP compliance, oral appliances provide an effective alternative when clinically appropriate.

The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process

1. Review of medical history and sleep study results
2. Determination of candidacy for oral appliance therapy
3. Digital impressions for custom device fabrication
4. Fitting and adjustment
5. Ongoing monitoring and collaboration with your physician

Proper follow-up ensures the appliance is effective and comfortable.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced snoring
• Increased daytime energy
• Lower long-term health risks
• Comfortable, travel-friendly solution

Many patients report noticeable improvement in both sleep quality and overall well-being.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• Cannot tolerate CPAP
• Have healthy teeth and gums to support the appliance
• Are committed to follow-up care

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums through Preventive Dentistry in Virginia Beach helps ensure long-term appliance success.

Who May Not Be a Candidate?

Oral appliance therapy may not be appropriate for:

• Severe obstructive sleep apnea
• Certain jaw joint conditions
• Insufficient healthy teeth
• Patients without a confirmed sleep study diagnosis

We coordinate with your physician to determine the safest and most effective treatment option.

Risks or Limitations

Oral appliance therapy is generally well tolerated, but potential considerations include:

• Temporary jaw soreness
• Bite changes if not monitored
• Need for periodic adjustments

Regular follow-up appointments ensure stability and effectiveness.

Cost of Sleep Apnea Treatment in Virginia Beach

The cost depends on:

• Type of oral appliance
• Insurance coverage
• Medical plan benefits

Many medical insurance plans provide coverage for oral appliance therapy when medically necessary. Our team will help review benefits and provide clear cost information before treatment begins.