Sleep Apnea Treatment

Breathe Better, Sleep Better

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. This interruption affects the quality of sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and a host of other health concerns. Left untreated, sleep apnea can significantly impact daily life and long-term health. With the right treatment, you can breathe easier, sleep deeper, and feel energized again.

Dr. Chigurupati has long been interested in improving the lives of military personnel, veterans, and their families. Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious problem for military members and their families. There is a higher incidence of sleep apnea in the military, with an even higher rate of sleep apnea among soldiers with PTSD. Dr. Chigurupati wants to help these individuals and their families find relief.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

There are many symptoms of sleep apnea, some that you may not realize are signs of a serious health condition that can lead to serious problems that affect your performance and overall health. Common symptoms to be aware of include:

  • Loud, persistent snoring
  • Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner)
  • Gasping or choking during sleep
  • Morning headaches
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes such as irritability or depression

If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking a professional evaluation is crucial.

Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is more than just an inconvenience—it poses serious health risks. Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can contribute to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Weight gain and obesity
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Impaired immune function

Managing sleep apnea improves your quality of sleep and protects your overall health and well-being. As a bonus, if you’ve been wondering how to fix snoring because it’s driving your partner crazy, sleep apnea treatment will greatly reduce or eliminate your snoring while improving your health.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

Fortunately, effective solutions are designed to fix or greatly reduce sleep apnea. Effective sleep apnea treatment options include:

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

CPAP therapy uses a machine that delivers continuous air through a mask to keep your airway open during sleep. While CPAP is highly effective, some patients find it uncomfortable due to the bulkiness of the mask, the noise of the machine, or feelings of claustrophobia. For those who struggle with CPAP compliance, alternative treatments are available, including oral appliances and surgery.

 

Oral Appliances We Use

SomnoMed Classic

The SomnoMed Classic is a custom-made oral appliance using acrylic and a screw mechanism that gently positions your jaw to maintain an open airway. It’s a comfortable, non-invasive solution for mild to moderate sleep apnea patients. The Classic model is durable, easy to wear, and designed to fit your unique dental structure.

SomnoMed Avant

The SomnoMed Avant is a new innovation in sleep apnea technology. Its acrylic design encourages breathing through the nose by keeping the mouth closed. Slimmer and more advanced than other oral appliances, the Avant offers an exceptional level of comfort with an easy-to-adapt slimline design. It’s 3D printed for a precise fit, maximizing comfort and compliance for those seeking a more modern alternative to CPAP therapy.

Dr. Chigurupati evaluates each patient to determine which type of sleep apnea appliance will work best, depending on the cause of their sleep apnea.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Devices

Choosing the right device can transform your nights—and your days. Benefits include:

  • Better quality, uninterrupted sleep
  • Increased daytime energy and focus
  • Reduced risk of serious health complications
  • Improved mood and emotional well-being
  • Enhanced bed partner satisfaction by reducing snoring
  • Greater comfort compared to traditional CPAP machines

Treating sleep apnea can be simple, effective, and life-changing with personalized treatment.

Surgery

In rare situations, patients may need to undergo surgery for sleep apnea or to fix snoring. This invasive procedure requires a lengthy recovery period of several weeks and is typically recommended only when all other treatment options have failed. If this is the case, Dr. Chigurupati will refer you to an oral surgeon for a consultation regarding the procedure.

Healthier Days Begin With a Better Night’s Sleep

Don’t let sleep apnea control your life. Whether you’re ready to explore CPAP alternatives or seeking a custom solution like SomnoMed, we’re here to guide you. Schedule a consultation today by calling Family Dentistry of Lakeland at Family Dentistry of Lakeland Office Phone Number 863-687-2759 to find the right sleep apnea treatment for you—and start waking up refreshed, energized, and healthy.