Sleep Apnea Treatment in Orange County

There are several possible causes of sleep apnea, one of which is obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) means that there is a mechanical collapse or obstruction of the airway during sleep. The usual treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is to place the patient on a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device for use during sleep. The CPAP device pressurizes the airway and pushes the obstruction open so that the airway remains clear during sleep. In situations where the patient poorly tolerates the CPAP device, a mandibular advancement device (MAD) may be a helpful alternative. A common site of airway obstruction during sleep is the back of the tongue pressing against the back of the throat. An MAD positions the lower jaw forward during sleep, so that the tongue is moved away from the back of the throat, thus opening the airway. Requirements for use of an MAD are stable teeth and healthy TMJ’s (jaw joints).