Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects breathing during sleep, leading to poor rest, chronic fatigue, and long-term health risks. While many people assume they need a CPAP machine, oral appliance therapy from an obstructive sleep apnea dentist can provide a comfortable and effective alternative. East Cooper Dental offers customized sleep apnea appliances for patients in Mount Pleasant, SC, looking for relief from snoring and breathing interruptions.
If you or a loved one struggles with sleep apnea symptoms, our team can help diagnose the issue and provide a treatment plan designed to improve airflow and restore restful sleep.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Dentist
As an experienced obstructive sleep apnea dentist, East Cooper Dental works with patients who cannot tolerate CPAP machines or prefer a more comfortable, travel-friendly option. Oral appliances are small, custom-made devices worn during sleep to reposition the jaw and open the airway.
Common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:
- Loud or persistent snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue or difficulty focusing
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Mood changes or irritability
- Pauses in breathing reported by a partner
If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Early treatment is essential.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Mount Pleasant
Patients seeking obstructive sleep apnea treatment in Mount Pleasant benefit from our personalized approach. We evaluate your airway, jaw position, medical history, and sleep symptoms to determine whether oral appliance therapy is the right solution. Many patients prefer oral appliances because they are quiet, easy to use, and significantly more comfortable than CPAP machines.
Oral appliance therapy may be recommended for:
- Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Patients who cannot tolerate CPAP
- Individuals experiencing disruptive snoring
- Patients looking for a low-maintenance treatment option
Our appliances are custom designed for a precise fit, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Works
Oral appliance therapy uses a specially crafted device that fits over the teeth and gently repositions the jaw forward. This helps keep the airway open during sleep, prevents soft tissue collapse, and reduces snoring and apnea episodes.
Evaluation
Your dentist performs an airway and bite assessment along with a thorough review of your symptoms.
Impressions and Customization
We take digital impressions to create a comfortable, accurately fitting oral appliance.
Fitting and Adjustment
During your follow-up visit, we test the fit, make adjustments, and ensure the appliance improves your breathing and comfort.
Ongoing Monitoring
We track your progress and make refinements to ensure long-term success and improved sleep quality.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Many patients prefer oral appliance therapy because it offers:
- Reduced or eliminated snoring
- Improved airflow during sleep
- Increased energy and alertness
- Better, more restorative sleep
- A quiet, comfortable alternative to CPAP
- Portability for travel
- Customized and easy-to-clean design
Oral appliances are small, discreet, and do not require electricity or masks, making them ideal for long-term use.
When to Seek Sleep Apnea Treatment
You should schedule an evaluation if you:
- Snore loudly
- Have observed pauses in breathing
- Wake up gasping or choking
- Feel excessively tired during the day
- Struggle with memory or focus
- Wake with headaches or dry mouth
Even mild symptoms should be taken seriously, as untreated sleep apnea can worsen over time.
Schedule Your Obstructive Sleep Apnea Consultation
If you’re searching for an obstructive sleep apnea dentist in Mount Pleasant, SC, East Cooper Dental offers effective, patient-focused solutions using custom oral appliance therapy. Our team can help you sleep better, breathe easier, and improve your overall health.
Call (843) 887-1165 or schedule your consultation online to learn more about sleep apnea treatment options.