Snoring & Sleep Apnea Treatment in Morganton and Lenoir, NC
At Gragg Orthodontics, we recognize the profound impact that sleep apnea can have on your well-being. That’s why we offer tailored solutions to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and improve your overall health. Dr. Kimberly Gragg and our experienced team are here to provide effective, personalized care designed with your comfort and health in mind.
Take the first step toward better sleep by scheduling your consultation today!
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This happens because of obstructions in your airway or incorrect signals from your brain while sleeping. Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can disrupt your rest, leaving you feeling fatigued and impacting your health.
There are two main types of sleep apnea to know about:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by a blockage in the airway, such as relaxed throat muscles or improper tongue positioning.
Central Sleep Apnea: Occurs when your brain doesn’t send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Orthodontic care primarily addresses obstructive sleep apnea by optimizing the structure of your airway for improved airflow.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed because many symptoms appear while you sleep. Knowing what to look for can help you seek treatment early. Common signs and symptoms include:
Loud, chronic snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Gasping or choking during the night
Excessive daytime fatigue
Dry mouth or sore throat when waking up
Headaches in the morning
Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek an evaluation. Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect your sleep—it can also increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health concerns.
How Orthodontics Can Help with Sleep Apnea & Snoring
You might not think of your orthodontist when it comes to sleep apnea, but orthodontic treatments can provide life-changing relief for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Here’s how we can help at Gragg Orthodontics:
Oral Appliances: Custom-designed devices that gently adjust the position of your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open while you sleep. These appliances are comfortable, portable, and effective for many patients.
Addressing Jaw Alignment Issues: Treatments that correct jaw irregularities can open blocked airways and significantly improve breathing.
Collaborative Care: Dr. Gragg partners with your physician or sleep specialist to ensure a comprehensive treatment approach that meets all your needs.
Our goal is to help you sleep soundly each night and wake up feeling refreshed by addressing the underlying causes of your sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
Q1. How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
If you experience symptoms such as loud snoring, interruptions in your breathing during sleep, or excessive fatigue, you may have sleep apnea. A sleep study performed by a physician can confirm the diagnosis.
Q2. Are oral appliances as effective as CPAP machines?
Oral appliances are a great alternative for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. They are less invasive and easier to use than CPAP machines, though their effectiveness depends on your specific condition.
Q3. Will my insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?
Many insurance plans cover a portion of sleep apnea treatment, including oral appliances. Our team is happy to help you understand your benefits and assist with claims.
Q4. Can sleep apnea be cured?
While there is no definitive cure for sleep apnea, treatments such as oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions can effectively manage and reduce symptoms.
Q5. What happens if sleep apnea goes untreated?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. Seeking treatment is essential for maintaining your long-term health.
Don’t let sleep apnea control your life. Contact Gragg Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation and start on the path to a better night’s sleep. We’re here to help you breathe easier and live better!
