Wake up to options for snoring and sleep apnea treatment at the dentist’s office
At Advanced Dental, we support a “pretty smile” and much, much more! Led by Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula, our office in Aliso Viejo, California, also stops distressing snoring and a potentially serious, often associated condition: obstructive sleep apnea.
Snoring and sleep apnea treatment at the dentist’s office
The noises that we know as “snoring” are actually vibrations, which are produced by the air rushing past tissues in the throat during sleep. While “primary” snoring is often harmless (albeit a source of distress for many members of the household if the noise is overly loud and persistent), snoring that is “secondary” to sleep apnea can be downright dangerous. That’s because this condition is characterized by a patient’s airway narrowing so much that they are unable to breathe. These blockages and interruptions in breathing can occur dozens of times each hour throughout the night or when the patient is sleeping.
Due to the obvious health threats presented by breathing impairment, sleep disturbances, and a lack of oxygen to the rest of the body, obstructive sleep apnea is associated with a range of scary conditions – from diabetes to heart disease and stroke.
Fortunately, Dr. Tiruveedula has a solution that works and is not a source of additional hassle or stress: oral appliance therapy.
Solutions for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring and sleep apnea are not just minor issues that disturb you and your family members’ sleep. They could indicate more serious underlying health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. If you live in and around Aliso Viejo, California, all you need to do is contact Advanced Dental for an appointment with Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula. She will offer you the ideal solution that works like oral appliance therapy.
Reduce Snoring
Treat Sleep Apnea
Custom Oral Appliance
Improve Sleep & Health
Oral appliances for sleep-disordered breathing
These lightweight, discreet, and custom-made devices are most appropriate for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. While numerous designs exist, these appliances are generally worn to reposition the jaw and tissues that block the airway when patients are relaxed and sleeping. In turn, the airway remains open, and our patients can breathe and sleep soundly and uninterrupted throughout the night. “Snoreguards” may also be on the horizon for individuals who are primary, habitual snorers – so everyone in the household can finally get a good night’s rest!
These are just a few oral appliances available at our Aliso Viejo, California office. We also offer custom-fit and highly durable “nightguards” or oral splints to resolve an associated condition: nocturnal bruxism (chronic teeth grinding).
You (and your family) deserve a good night’s rest and the ability to lead your fullest, healthiest life. Call Advanced Dental at (949) 289-9993 to start the conversation today and get one big step closer to quality rest and better health.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea FAQs
What causes snoring, and how is it connected to sleep apnea?
Snoring occurs when air passes through relaxed throat tissues, causing vibrations while a person sleeps. In many cases, this is considered primary snoring and may not pose a serious health risk. Nonetheless, snoring may also indicate obstructive sleep apnea, which is a condition in which the airway is either partially or entirely obstructed during sleep. These blockages interrupt breathing and reduce oxygen levels, which can place significant strain on the heart and other organs if left untreated.
How can a dentist help treat snoring and sleep apnea?
Dentists can help manage snoring and sleep apnea through oral appliance therapy. This therapy utilizes specialized devices tailored to maintain an open airway while sleeping by subtly adjusting the position of the jaw. These appliances are often recommended for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who snore regularly. Dental-based treatment offers a non-invasive, comfortable option that fits easily into a nightly routine.
What are oral appliances, and how do they work for sleep apnea?
Oral appliances are small, custom-fitted devices worn while sleeping. They work by adjusting the position of the lower jaw and supporting soft tissues so the airway remains open. By preventing airway collapse, these devices help reduce breathing interruptions, improve oxygen flow, and promote deeper, more restful sleep. Many patients also notice a reduction in snoring almost immediately.
Are there different types of oral appliances available?
Yes, there are several designs of oral appliances used to treat sleep-disordered breathing. While their appearance may vary, all are designed to maintain an open airway during sleep. Some appliances focus specifically on reducing snoring, while others are designed for sleep apnea. Certain patients may also benefit from nightguards that address teeth grinding, which can occur alongside sleep-related breathing issues.
Who is a good candidate for oral appliance therapy?
Oral appliance therapy is typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who experience chronic snoring. It may also benefit patients who cannot tolerate other forms of treatment. A dental evaluation is necessary to determine whether this approach is appropriate based on airway anatomy, jaw position, and overall oral health.
What health risks are associated with untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to serious health concerns, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Repeated breathing interruptions reduce oxygen levels and disrupt sleep cycles, placing ongoing stress on the body. Over time, this can affect concentration, mood, and overall quality of life, making early treatment especially important.
Can oral appliances improve sleep quality for both the patient and their partner?
Yes, reducing snoring and breathing disruptions often leads to better sleep for both the patient and their partner. Many people report fewer nighttime awakenings, improved energy during the day, and quieter sleep overall. This can significantly improve household sleep routines and overall well-being.
How long does it take to adjust to an oral appliance?
Most patients adapt to wearing an oral appliance within a few nights to a couple of weeks. Mild jaw soreness or increased salivation may occur initially, but these effects usually subside as the mouth adjusts. Follow-up visits allow adjustments to ensure comfort and effectiveness over time.
Is oral appliance therapy a long-term solution?
For many patients, oral appliance therapy provides long-term relief when used consistently. Regular dental checkups help ensure the appliance continues to fit properly and remains effective. Ongoing monitoring allows adjustments as needed to maintain airway support and protect oral health.
How do I begin treatment for snoring or sleep apnea at Advanced Dental?
The first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula to discuss your symptoms and concerns. During this visit, sleep patterns, oral anatomy, and treatment options are reviewed to determine the most appropriate approach. To get started, contact Advanced Dental at (949) 289-9993 and begin the path toward better sleep and improved health.
Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula
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Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. After advanced training at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, she relocated to Orange County, CA in 2015. Dr. Chitra is a member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. Committed to continuous education, she provides top-quality dental services using the latest advancements.
Dr. Joseph C. Yang
Dr. Joseph C. Yang has over 30 years of dental practice experience. He earned his B.S. from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and his D.D.S. from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He then had a distinguished 30-year career as a U.S. Naval Dental Officer, including a residency in Periodontology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Yang is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a member of the American Dental Association and American Academy of Periodontology. As a board-certified Periodontist, he has performed thousands of successful periodontal and implant procedures. He is also a renowned lecturer and trainer in the latest implant and periodontal techniques worldwide.