Dental Sleep Medicine

At RR Dentistry, we specialize in a unique area of care called dental sleep medicine. This specialty focuses on treating sleep-related breathing disorders such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using custom oral appliances. 

Dentists Can Help Treat Sleep Apnea! 

Many people are unaware that dentists at RR Dentistry are trained to address issues like snoring and sleep apnea. Dental sleep medicine, a growing field, involves oral appliance therapy to assist patients with sleep-disordered breathing. Collaborating with sleep physicians locally and beyond, Dr. Roberson ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their condition. As a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), Dr. Roberson is highly qualified to provide solutions that improve sleep and enhance overall health.

If you're struggling to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or are seeking an alternative solution for sleep apnea, Dr. Robeson can help. Oral appliance therapy is a comfortable, effective option that can significantly enhance your sleep and quality of life.

Why Quality Sleep Matters 

Sleep plays a vital role in your overall health, and disruptions such as snoring or sleep apnea can lead to serious consequences. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke have been linked to poor sleep caused by obstructive sleep apnea. Often dismissed as a minor nuisance, snoring can be an early warning sign of more significant issues. Consulting with Dr. Roberson and your primary care physician about potential treatments can help you avoid long-term health risks. 

Understanding Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea 

Snoring can be a red flag for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops during sleep due to blocked airways. It's important to get a diagnosis from a board-certified sleep medicine physician. A doctor may prescribe an oral sleep appliance if your snoring is unrelated to sleep apnea. Treatment options will be discussed for those diagnosed with sleep apnea to determine the best course of action. 

CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that forces air into the airways. While effective, CPAP therapy isn't suitable for everyone. If you find CPAP uncomfortable or inconvenient, your doctor may suggest an oral appliance. These devices are small, portable, quiet, and comfortable alternatives to CPAP, ideal for those seeking a less invasive treatment. In severe cases, surgery might be an option. 

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy? 

Dentists have pioneered oral appliance therapy to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. These custom-fit devices, worn only during sleep, are like a mouthguard or retainer. The appliance works by positioning the jaw forward, keeping the airway open, and preventing obstructions that cause sleep disturbances. This simple yet effective method can improve sleep quality by reducing snoring and preventing airway collapse. 

At RR Dentistry, Dr. Roberson offers personalized oral appliance therapy for patients with sleep apnea or chronic snoring. This device helps maintain an open airway, allowing for uninterrupted breathing and ensuring you sleep more soundly throughout the night. 

Take Control of Your Sleep Health 

If you're tired of disrupted sleep or concerned about snoring and its potential health effects, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ryan Roberson at RR Dentistry. Whether you're a new patient or returning for a follow-up, we're here to help you achieve better rest and improved well-being. Call us at (512) 869-5997 or email us today to start your journey toward healthier sleep and a better quality of life.