Many patients are surprised to learn that dentists play a significant role in treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This sleep-related breathing disorder, which affects millions of Americans, occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing a person to choke and gasp for air.
Dr. Hilary Prill of Signature Smile Family Dentistry in Rockledge, Florida, is an expert in treating sleep apnea. With innovative, noninvasive solutions like oral appliance therapy, Dr. Prill helps patients achieve restful, rejuvenating sleep while protecting their long-term health.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
OSA occurs when the muscles in the airway relax too much during sleep, causing the airway to collapse. This blockage interrupts the flow of air through the trachea, mouth, and nose, leading to breathing stoppages that can occur hundreds of times per night.
How OSA Disrupts Your Sleep and Health
Each episode of interrupted breathing may last several seconds, causing the body to gasp for air and disrupting sleep cycles. These interruptions prevent restorative sleep and strain the body’s systems, leading to serious health consequences if left untreated.
Why Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea
Our Rockledge, FL dentist, with expertise in oral and airway structures, are uniquely qualified to treat sleep apnea through dental sleep medicine. By utilizing oral appliance therapy (OAT), Hilary Prill, DMD can offer effective, non-invasive treatment that targets the root cause of OSA.
Advantages of Dental Sleep Medicine
Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine, like Dr. Prill, collaborate with physicians to create custom treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. With advancements in sleep dentistry, patients now have more options beyond traditional CPAP therapy, making treatment accessible, comfortable, and effective.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, seeking a diagnosis is the first step to improving your health and quality of life.
Common Symptoms of OSA
- Feeling exhausted upon waking.
- Daytime fatigue or brain fog.
- Dry mouth or a sore throat in the morning.
- Irritability, mood swings, or depression.
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems.
The Impact of Untreated OSA
When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to severe health issues, including:
- Heart disease: High blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke are common complications.
- Type II diabetes: OSA increases insulin resistance and blood sugar levels.
- Obesity: Sleep disruptions can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
- Respiratory issues: Interrupted breathing places strain on the lungs.
- Immune system dysfunction: Poor sleep weakens your body’s ability to fight infections.
Addressing these symptoms early can prevent long-term damage and improve your overall well-being.
Effective Sleep Apnea Treatment
Dr. Prill, a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), offers advanced treatment options for sleep apnea that prioritize patient comfort and long-term health. The focus is on non-invasive, patient-centered care.
Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): A Leading Solution
Oral appliance therapy is a popular alternative to CPAP therapy for patients with mild to moderate OSA. These custom-made devices reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
- Non-invasive: No masks, hoses, or machines.
- Comfortable: Custom-fitted for a perfect fit.
- Portable: Easy to travel with.
- Quiet: Ideal for patients and their partners.
- Affordable: More cost-effective than CPAP therapy.
Dr. Prill uses cutting-edge techniques to design oral appliances tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring effective and comfortable treatment.
What to Expect at Your Sleep Apnea Appointment
At your initial sleep apnea appointment, Dr. Prill and her team will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best treatment approach for your condition.
Steps in Your Evaluation
- Review of Sleep Study Results: A home sleep test (HST) or in-lab study provides a detailed understanding of your sleep patterns and breathing interruptions.
- Oral and Airway Examination: Dr. Prill will assess the structure of your mouth, jaw, and airway to create a personalized treatment plan.
- Treatment Recommendations: Based on your diagnosis and needs, you’ll receive a custom plan that may include oral appliance therapy, behavioral modifications, and any necessary dental treatments.
Every treatment plan is tailored to help you achieve restful, uninterrupted sleep and improved health.
Why Choose Dr. Hilary Prill for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Dr. Hilary Prill is a highly respected Rockledge sleep dentist, certified in Dental Sleep Medicine by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). Her extensive training and passion for improving patients’ quality of life make her the top choice for sleep apnea treatment in the area.
Expertise and Compassion
Dr. Prill is an expert in treating both children and adults with OSA. Her innovative approach ensures that patients receive the most effective and comfortable treatments available.
Collaborative Care
Dr. Prill works closely with medical professionals to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs. This collaborative approach ensures optimal outcomes for managing sleep apnea and its related symptoms.
The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea
Treating sleep apnea is essential to preserving both your physical health and emotional well-being. Here’s why seeking care is so critical:
Health Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
- Reduced cardiovascular risk: Effective treatment lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Improved energy levels: Restorative sleep enhances focus and daytime performance.
- Better emotional health: Addressing sleep disruptions helps alleviate anxiety and depression.
- Enhanced quality of life: Waking up refreshed leads to improved relationships and daily productivity.
By seeking treatment with Dr. Prill, you can take control of your sleep and protect your long-term health.
Contact Our Rockledge, Florida Sleep Dentist
If you or a loved one is struggling with snoring, fatigue, or other symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek help. At Signature Smile Family Dentistry, Dr. Hilary Prill provides expert care to help patients achieve restful, rejuvenating sleep.
To start your journey toward better sleep and improved health call (321) 633-4020 today.
