Sleep Apnea
Vastly Improve Sleep Quality and Overall Health
Proper rest is key to a healthy life. At Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Specialists South Carolina, our interest in the health of our patients extends beyond oral health. We want our patients to achieve healthy lives in all aspects, and we are proud to offer surgical treatment for sleep apnea to help the people of South Carolina’s Lowcountry achieve optimal, restful sleep.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is defined as a sleep disorder in which breathing is continuously interrupted during sleep. An estimated 18 million American adults suffer from sleep apnea, and this dangerous condition can cause low blood oxygen levels. Because of the extreme lapses in breathing, this condition is serious and life-threatening. The risks of undiagnosed OSA include heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart disease, and decreased libido.
Patients usually come to our practice when a sleep specialist or a general physician has recommended oral surgery treatment for sleep apnea, especially if other nonsurgical treatments have failed. We work closely with other members of your care team and referring physicians so you can get the healthy and restorative sleep you need.
A Variety of Treatment Options in Mount Pleasant Tailored to Your Needs
During your consultation appointment with our board-certified surgeon Dr. Matthew Barefoot, you will likely receive digital diagnostic imaging using our advanced 3D CBCT scanner and a careful physical examination to determine the level of obstruction. Depending on whether your OSA is mild, moderate, or severe, Dr. Barefoot will select a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatments can include behavior modification, oral appliances, or an air pressure device.
Surgery will be recommended if Dr. Barefoot discovers a correctable physical obstruction of the airway or finds any abnormal flow of air from the nose to the lungs. The surgical treatment for sleep apnea can be quite effective and vastly improve a patient’s sleep quality and overall health.
Signs and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
The medical complications associated with this disorder can be severe. If you are suffering from any of the following symptoms, you should contact us for an evaluation:
- Non-restorative sleep
- Insomnia
- Difficulty performing work or school duties
- Disruption of the sleep of a bed partner
- Inability to concentrate
- Memory problems
- Anxiety/Irritability/Depression
- Chronic headaches
Depending on the severity of your condition, the surgical treatment for OSA is typically performed in our practice under IV sedation. We offer a variety of anesthesia and sedation options to choose from. Please feel free to contact us with any of your questions about sleep apnea or other procedures. We look forward to helping you get a healthy, full night’s sleep at last.