What is sleep apnea, and how can our Columbus-based orthodontists help patients that suffer from it? This common sleep disorder happens when breathing is repeatedly interrupted during their sleep. These interruptions (apneas) lead to poor quality of sleep and can even have serious health consequences. Traditional treatments like CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are well known, but orthodontics can actually play a big role in addressing sleep apnea too. At Hutta Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Hutta, Dr. Kamrani, and our care team provide several treatments to help with managing, alleviating, and even preventing sleep apnea symptoms.
Types of sleep apnea
You may think of sleep apnea as one disorder, but the condition actually presents in three main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea. OSA is the most common type, and occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, blocking the airway. CSA is less common. CSA happens when the brain fails to signal to the muscles to breathe. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Symptoms of sleep apnea
Common symptoms of sleep apnea can range from loud snoring and gasping for air during sleep to excessive daytime sleepiness and morning headaches. If ignored and untreated, the condition can even lead to serious health issues. In some unfortunate cases, patients have experienced hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke as a result.
Identifying candidates for orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic experts like Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani will perform a thorough evaluation often in collaboration with a sleep specialist. This is the first step in any treatment process, and will help your experts choose the best course of treatment based on things like the severity of the apnea, the patient’s medical history, and underlying anatomical issues are a part of the diagnosis considerations.
How orthodontists can help treat sleep apnea
This diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities is a specialty of Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani. Many of these irregularities contribute to obstructive sleep apnea. Addressing structural issues in the mouth and jaw with orthodontic treatments from our Columbus team can improve airflow during a patient’s time asleep and reduce the frequency of apneas. Orthodontic interventions can be particularly beneficial in cases where patients do not respond well to CPAP therapy well or are looking for alternative treatment options. Seeking care for young children can positively impact facial growth and prevent future airway issues from developing, including sleep apnea.
Early intervention
Starting treatment with an orthodontist at an early age can open a child’s airway and improve their breathing by treating issues such as a narrow maxilla and/or narrow dental arches. It’s best to correct these issues early if possible, as better breathing early on leads to improved overall health post-adolescence.
Jaw expansion techniques
One orthodontic technique particularly helpful with younger patients is palatal expansion. This approach uses an expander device that applies pressure to the palatal bones gradually over time, helping them to grow wider. The experts at our Columbus office can create more space in the nasal cavity and improve airflow by expanding the palate and increasing the width of the upper jaw, preventing the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea and poor sleep breathing. While these expanders are typically worn for three to six months, the recommended timeline can vary depending on the patient.
Surgical options to treat airway issues
In cases of sleep apnea that are particularly severe, orthognathic surgery is sometimes suggested as a solution. This is a surgery that involves repositioning the jaws to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws, therefore opening the airway. By moving the lower jaw and, in some cases, the upper jaw, orthognathic surgery helps open the airway and reduce the frequency of apneas a patient may be experiencing.
Genioglossus advancement (GA) is another surgical option, where a surgeon will target the base of the tongue, an area that contributes significantly to airway issues in sleep apnea patients. With a GA procedure, a surgeon will reposition the attachment of the primary muscle of the tongue (called the genioglossus muscle), preventing it from collapsing into the airway during sleep.
Adenotonsillectomy surgery can also be very helpful in cases where enlarged tonsils and adenoids are causing any degree of airway obstruction. Studies have shown significant improvements in sleep quality post-surgery when the tonsils and adenoids are surgically removed, making this a top treatment option for pediatric patients with OSA.
Tongue retaining devices (TRDs) and mandibular advancement devices (MADs)
Although our Columbus office typically doesn’t treat sleep apnea with TRDs or MADs, our HOS team is happy to refer you to another practice that does if one of these is the best treatment option for you!
TRDs work by holding the tongue in a forward position, stopping it from falling back and blocking the airway. These devices are often useful for patients whose sleep apnea is largely caused by tongue obstruction. TRDs are custom-fitted and can be a comfortable and effective treatment option for many individuals.
A MAD is an oral appliance that is custom-made by experts. It fits over the upper and lower teeth, similar to a mouthguard. By gently moving the lower jaw forward, these devices help to keep the airway open during sleep. MADs can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of apneas by preventing the airway from collapsing.
Lifestyle and dental changes
In addition to treatment, Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani may suggest certain lifestyle changes to help patients manage sleep apnea symptoms. Losing weight, not consuming alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, sleeping on your side, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule are all potential suggestions to improve sleep. Our team of Columbus orthodontists can guide patients through these lifestyle modifications in conjunction with orthodontic treatments to achieve results for a healthy smile and healthy sleep!
Benefits of orthodontics
Restful sleep is vital to any person’s overall health, which is why treatment for sleep apnea is so important. More sleep can lead to an improved mood, increased energy levels, and an enhanced overall well-being. Healthy smiles and healthy sleep is a perfect combination!
Long-term health benefits of treating sleep apnea
Treating sleep apnea can have so many long-term health benefits. Improved airflow, decreased apneas, decreased risk of developing serious health conditions… these are all ways in which treatment can benefit patients. Those who successfully complete orthodontic treatment for sleep apnea have reported better overall health and a higher quality of life!
Schedule an appointment with Hutta Orthodontic Specialists today
Here at Hutta Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Kamrani and Dr. Hutta are passionate about helping our patients to find the most effective treatment plan for better sleep and better overall health. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just an investment in your smile, but in your overall well-being! Contact our office today.