Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form and typically results from relaxed throat muscles or soft tissues blocking the airway. Left untreated, sleep apnea may increase your risk for serious conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease and chronic fatigue. Addressing this condition early is essential for maintaining your overall health and quality of life.
Do You Have Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Many people do not realize they are suffering from sleep apnea until a partner notices loud snoring or pauses in breathing during the night. Other common signs include:
- Morning headaches
- Irritability
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Daytime drowsiness
If you suspect your or a loved one may have sleep apnea, it is important that you schedule an evaluation and undergo a sleep study for a proper diagnosis so that you can receive an appropriate treatment for sleep apnea in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and begin improving your health and wellbeing.
Custom Oral Appliance Therapy
If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy in Crystal Lake, IL, may offer an effective, noninvasive alternative to the CPAP machine. Oral appliances are custom-fitted dental devices worn during sleep. They work by repositioning your lower jaw or tongue to keep your airway open, helping you breathe without obstruction through the night.
Many patients prefer oral appliances over CPAP therapy due to their comfort, portability and ease of use. Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances do not require electricity, masks or tubing. This makes them a practical solution, especially for patients who travel frequently or who cannot tolerate CPAP devices.
Sleep Apnea & Your Overall Health
Sleep apnea affects far more than just your ability to get a good night’s rest. When breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep, your body experiences reduced oxygen levels and increased stress. Over time, this strain can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, weight gain, stroke and even cognitive decline.
Many people with untreated sleep apnea also suffer from chronic fatigue, which can impair concentration, mood and performance at work or school. It may also increase the risk of accidents, especially while driving. The effects of poor sleep can quietly influence many aspects of your daily life and long-term wellness.
Seeking treatment for sleep apnea in Crystal Lake, IL, is one of the most important steps you can take for your health. Restoring proper breathing at night helps your body recover, repair and regulate essential functions. With effective treatment — such as oral appliance therapy — you can reduce your risk of related health issues and enjoy a better quality of life.
Your Experienced Sleep Dentist
Dr. Amanda Henry is a Diplomate with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and has undergone extensive training and certification to treat sleep apnea using oral appliance therapy. She will collaborate closely with your sleep physician to ensure a coordinated approach to your treatment. Once you receive a sleep apnea diagnosis, Dr. Henry will work with you to determine the type of sleep apnea treatment in Crystal Lake, IL, that is right for your needs, including evaluating whether you are a candidate for a custom oral appliance. These appliances are designed to fit comfortably over your teeth, much like a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer.
During your visit, our dentist will take precise digital impressions to create your device, ensuring a personalized fit. Our team will also follow up with adjustments and monitoring to confirm that your appliance is providing optimal results. Our goal is to help you experience better sleep, increased energy and improved health.
We invite you to call us at 815-459-4847 or text our team at 815-451-4847 for more information about sleep apnea treatment in Crystal Lake, IL. We are committed to help you manage sleep apnea and enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What is the difference between oral appliance therapy and CPAP?
Oral appliance therapy uses a small, custom mouthpiece to reposition your jaw or tongue, keeping your airway open during sleep. CPAP uses a machine to push air through a mask into your airway. Oral appliances are quieter, more compact and often easier for patients to tolerate consistently.
Who is a good candidate for an oral sleep appliance?
Ideal candidates for oral appliance therapy typically have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or cannot use CPAP comfortably. A dentist trained in sleep medicine can assess your airway, sleep study results and overall health to determine if an oral device is the right treatment option for you.
Is oral appliance therapy covered by insurance?
Many medical insurance plans, including Medicare, provide coverage for oral appliance therapy when it is medically necessary. A sleep study and a formal diagnosis from a physician are often required. Our office can help verify your benefits and assist with any documentation needed for insurance approval and reimbursement.
How long does it take to adjust to an oral appliance?
Most patients adjust to wearing an oral appliance within a few nights to a few weeks. Minor side effects like jaw soreness or increased saliva are common initially but usually resolve. Proper fitting, follow-up adjustments and consistent use are important for comfort and long-term treatment success.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Henry provides sleep apnea treatment in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and to patients in the surrounding areas, including Barrington, Deer Park, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Lake Barrington and Lakewood, Illinois. Call today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with our dentist and learn more!