A leading dentist office in Washington DC, District Dental Solutions offers diagnostic care for sleep disorders including sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing. Dr. Arroyo will work with you on an individual basis to evaluate your needs and recommend appropriate treatment to improve symptoms and overall health and wellness.
What is Airway Dentistry?
Dr. Arroyo practices Airway Dentistry in Washington, DC. A growing area of study and treatment, Airway Dentistry focuses on the anatomy of a patient’s airway and the oral health factors affecting breathing. The goal of treatment is to improve airflow and restore nasal breathing by addressing structural concerns through corrective procedures, habit changes, and oral appliance therapy. The key is to identify the root cause so that your outcome is successful and lasting.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea the common method of treatment is the CPAP. Often necessary for moderate to severe sleep apneas and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), some patients are intolerant and struggle to improve symptoms. Dr. Arroyo can work with you to incorporate oral appliance therapy into your treatment as an alternative to the CPAP.
How does oral appliance therapy work?
A custom oral appliance made for a sleep disorder or sleep apnea is designed to reposition the jaw, allowing the muscles in the joints to relax and the airway to remain open when sleeping. For many patients with a diagnosed sleep problem, the soft tissue at the back of the throat is collapsing into the airway when asleep and causing repeated cessation in natural breathing.
The Signs & Symptoms of A Sleep Disorder
Many patients with a sleep disorder or sleep apnea are unaware that their health and quality of life concerns are sleep-related. Discussing your lifestyle, changes in sleep habits or daily energy levels can lead to the appropriate treatment and improve many aspects of your well being. Common signs and symptoms can include:
- Feeling groggy or tired, even after a “full night” of sleep
- Increased irritability and moodiness
- Dry mouth in the morning
- Snoring or waking up gasping for air
- Difficulty concentrating
If you notice changes in your daily energy level or ability to complete normal daily tasks it could be related to your decreased quality of sleep.
There are also common risk factors for sleep apnea to be aware of and discuss with Dr. Arroyo when you visit with us for dental care. These can include:
- Diagnosed diabetes
- Overweight, obese
- Large neck circumference
- Smoker, use tobacco products
- Male, especially males over 45
- Family history of sleep apnea
Although it is important to be aware of key risk factors, sleep disorders can affect almost anyone, including children. There is a growing list of common health and behavioral problems that are believed to be related to a sleep problem. Dr. Arroyo continues to participate in training and education in Airway Dentistry for the benefit of our patients and their results.
Schedule A Consultation with Dr. Arroyo
If you would like to learn more about the treatment we offer for sleep apnea and sleep disorders in our Washington DC dentist office schedule an appointment with Dr. Arroyo. Call our dental office or request an appointment online.
