With a tailored approach to treating sleep apnea, we use advanced dental techniques to deliver effective and compassionate care. Whether you’re dealing with snoring, fatigue, or other symptoms, we’re dedicated to improving your sleep and, most importantly, your quality of life.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses, known as apneas, can last for several seconds or even longer, disrupting your sleep cycle and causing a drop in oxygen levels. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to daytime fatigue, poor concentration, and an increased risk of severe health issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Some signs of sleep apnea to watch for include:

Loud snoring.
Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner).
Waking up gasping or choking.
Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning.
Morning headaches.
Daytime sleepiness or irritability.

If you recognize these symptoms, you should consider sleep apnea treatment in Palm Bay. At River Oak Dental, we’re here to help.

The Types of Sleep Apnea

To better understand how we treat sleep apnea, it’s essential to know about the three primary types of this condition:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the throat muscles relax too much during sleep, causing a partial or complete blockage of the airway.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, there is no physical blockage; instead, the issue lies in the central nervous system.
Complex or Mixed Sleep Apnea: This form combines both obstructive and central sleep apnea. It typically starts as OSA but is diagnosed as complex sleep apnea when certain central sleep apnea traits are observed during treatment.

Our team at River Oak Dental focuses primarily on treating OSA, which is often manageable with advanced dental therapies. If CSA or complex sleep apnea features are present, we collaborate with medical specialists for the best possible outcome.

The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process

At River Oak Dental in Palm Bay, we take a thorough and patient-centered approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea. Here’s what you can expect when seeking care with us:

1. Initial Consultation

During your first visit, Dr. Marc A. Christy will conduct a detailed evaluation, reviewing your medical history and symptoms. We’ll also utilize advanced dental technology, such as digital X-rays, an intraoral camera, and an intraoral scanner, to get a clear and accurate picture of your oral and airway structures.

2. Diagnosis

If sleep apnea is suspected, you may be referred for a sleep study to determine the severity of your condition. This test can often be done at home and records your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other vital information while you sleep.

3. Customized Oral Appliance Therapy

We offer oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This involves creating a custom-fitted device that you wear during sleep. The appliance repositions your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open through the night, reducing or even eliminating apnea episodes.

4. Ongoing Care and Follow-Up

Your treatment doesn’t stop once the appliance is delivered. Regular follow-up visits ensure that your appliance fits comfortably and effectively, and adjustments are made as needed to maximize its benefits.

By prioritizing comfort and convenience, we make the treatment process as smooth as possible.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment

Addressing sleep apnea is not just about stopping snoring—it can dramatically improve your overall quality of life. Here are three key benefits of undergoing treatment:

Improved Sleep Quality and Energy: With proper treatment, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted sleep and feel more rested and energized during the day. Imagine waking up refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way!
Better Overall Health: Managing sleep apnea reduces the risk of serious health complications like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. Treating this condition is an investment in your long-term well-being.
Harmonious Relationships: For many, snoring and disrupted sleep are more than personal problems—they affect partners, too. With effective treatment, you and your partner can both enjoy peaceful, uninterrupted nights.

Why Choose River Oak Dental in Palm Bay?

At River Oak Dental, we understand that comfort and trust are essential to providing outstanding care. That’s why we combine cutting-edge dental technology with personal attention to meet your needs. From digital X-rays and laser dentistry to amenities like blankets, bottled water, iPads, and streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, we go above and beyond to ensure a relaxing experience.

We also offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit and an in-house savings plan, so you don’t have to worry about the cost of treatment.