Sleep Apnea Treatment in Greeley, CO

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing while you sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the throat relax and block the airway.

Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Loud snoring that disrupts sleep
• Gasping or choking while sleeping
• Excessive daytime fatigue or difficulty staying awake
• Morning headaches and dry mouth
• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
• High blood pressure or irregular heartbeat

If you experience these symptoms, a sleep study may be recommended to diagnose the severity of your condition.

How We Treat Sleep Apnea

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance can be an effective alternative to CPAP therapy.

Custom Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Oral appliances are designed to gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue, preventing airway collapse during sleep. These devices:

• Reduce snoring and improve airflow
• Are compact, portable, and comfortable to wear
• Require no electricity or bulky equipment, unlike CPAP machines
• Are easy to clean and maintain

For those who struggle with CPAP intolerance, an oral appliance may be a more comfortable, user-friendly solution.

Oral Appliance Therapy vs. CPAP

Many patients prefer oral appliance therapy over CPAP for treating sleep apnea due to its convenience and comfort. Here’s how they compare:

• Effectiveness – CPAP is considered the "gold standard" for severe sleep apnea, but oral appliances are effective for mild to moderate cases.
• Comfort – Oral appliances are custom-fitted and less invasive than CPAP masks.
• Ease of Use – CPAP requires a machine, mask, and tubing, while an oral appliance is simple and portable.
• Compliance – Patients are more likely to wear an oral appliance consistently, improving long-term results.

For patients with severe sleep apnea, CPAP or surgical options may still be necessary. If you're unsure which treatment is right for you, we will coordinate with your sleep physician to determine the best approach.

What to Expect During Treatment

1. Sleep Apnea Screening & Consultation

We evaluate your symptoms and may recommend a sleep study to confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea.

2. Custom Oral Appliance Fitting

Once diagnosed, we take digital impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made oral appliance that fits comfortably and effectively.

3. Adjustment & Follow-Up

After your appliance is delivered, we adjust it as needed to maximize effectiveness and comfort. Regular follow-ups ensure continued success.

If you also suffer from TMJ pain or jaw discomfort, we can modify the appliance to ensure proper jaw alignment while maintaining open airway support.

TMJ therapy & jaw pain relief is often integrated with sleep apnea treatment for patients experiencing jaw tension.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment

By treating sleep apnea, you can experience:

• Better sleep quality and improved daytime energy
• Reduced snoring, benefiting both you and your partner
• Lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure
• Improved mood, focus, and cognitive function
• Relief from morning headaches and dry mouth

For patients struggling with multiple oral health issues, including bruxism (teeth grinding) and jaw pain, sleep apnea treatment can also help reduce strain on the jaw and teeth.

Custom night guards may be recommended alongside sleep apnea treatment for patients experiencing nighttime teeth grinding.