Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. As an oral and maxillofacial surgery practice committed to comprehensive patient care, Sunset Oral Surgery specializes in the evaluation and treatment of sleep apnea, offering advanced solutions to improve sleep quality and overall well-being at our clinic in West Hollywood, CA.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
There are several types of sleep apnea, with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) being the most common. OSA occurs when the throat muscles relax, obstructing the airway during sleep. This leads to disrupted breathing patterns, resulting in snoring, gasping or pauses in breathing. Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to various health issues, including daytime fatigue, hypertension, cardiovascular problems and impaired cognitive function.
Dr. David Salehani specializes in addressing sleep apnea, particularly when related to anatomical issues within the oral and maxillofacial regions. He works closely with sleep specialists, physicians and other healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and effectively manage sleep apnea. Treatment options may include:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP is a highly effective non-invasive therapy used to treat OSA. It involves a CPAP machine that delivers a continuous stream of air through a mask worn over the nose or both nose and mouth during sleep. This pressurized air keeps the airway open, preventing pauses in breathing and alleviating the symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Oral Appliance Therapy: Customized oral appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or tongue-retaining devices, can be prescribed to reposition the jaw or tongue, keeping the airway open during sleep. These appliances are comfortable, easy to use, and offer a non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines.
- Surgical Interventions: In certain cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to address anatomical factors contributing to sleep apnea. This could involve procedures to reposition or address structural issues in the upper airway, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA).
Our team conducts comprehensive evaluations, including sleep studies and assessments of oral and facial structures. We take the time to discuss findings, treatment options and expected outcomes with our patients, ensuring they understand and actively participate in their care decisions.
At our practice, our commitment to addressing sleep apnea goes beyond symptom management; it is about enhancing the quality of life for our patients. Through specialized expertise and a personalized approach, we strive to provide effective solutions for sleep apnea, promoting better sleep and improving overall health and wellness. If you have been diagnosed with OSA and want to explore surgical treatment options, contact our team at Sunset Oral Surgery in West Hollywood, CA, to schedule an appointment.
