Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes more than loud snoring and interrupted sleep. It is a serious condition that should be accurately treated. Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, of Lehigh Valley Smiles, our Easton, PA dental practice has experience helping his patients who suffer from sleep apnea and offer several procedures to correct the condition.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft palate collapses, creating a blockage to the airway. This can cause a person to stop breathing hundreds of times per night. If a sleeping partner has been telling you that you stop breathing while sleeping, or if you feel a sore throat and excessive tiredness in the mornings, it is time to see the doctor.
Sleep apnea not only causes fatigue to you and a sleeping partner, but it increases the risk of hypertension, stroke, liver problems, and heart failure. It can also cause complications with medications and surgery, being especially dangerous when undiagnosed.
Dr. Dilsaver has success performing oral surgeries to unblock the airway. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty removes excess tissue from the upper mouth and throat. Maxillomandibular advancement moves the jaw forward to allow more room behind the soft palate. These are two solutions that are generally used first. A tracheostomy is a procedure for when others have failed. In this procedure, a tube is inserted into your throat that opens at night. These procedures are all safe and Dr. Dilsaver is experienced in performing them all.
If you have been suffering with sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, of Lehigh Valley Smiles here at our Easton, PA location. To schedule, call (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
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