The Silent Epidemic

We're concerned about the overall health of our patients in Yakima, including their sleep health. Many people suffer needlessly from dangerous sleep disruptive disorders that keep them from getting enough oxygen at night. Estimates suggest that more than twelve million Americans compromise their health due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Most cases remain undiagnosed, contributing to diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and traffic accidents related to drowsy driving. Dentistry serves a vital role in treating this silent epidemic.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA is a breathing disorder characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep due to a blockage in the airway. Obstructions occur when throat muscles, tongue, tonsils, or the soft palate falls back into the throat. The obstruction results in a severe drop in blood oxygen levels throughout the night.

These breathing interruptions can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night, fragmenting sleep and depriving your brain and body of oxygen. Over time, this oxygen deprivation damages your cardiovascular system and overall health.

⚠️ Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea

  • Loud, chronic snoring (often reported by partner)
  • Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
  • Pauses in breathing witnessed by others
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
  • Morning headaches
  • Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Waking with dry mouth or sore throat
  • Restless sleep or insomnia
  • Frequent nighttime urination

Diagnosis and Testing

OSA is typically diagnosed using a polysomnogram or a sleep study. During a sleep study, a sleep physician monitors brain activity and body system functioning while a patient rests overnight at a sleep lab. The specialist evaluates the study data collected to diagnose sleep disorders and recommend treatment.

In some cases, a home sleep study may also be possible. Dr. Kezele can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a qualified sleep physician for proper diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances as a primary therapy for the treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for patients with severe sleep apnea who can't tolerate CPAP treatment. Our training allows us to offer education and treatment surrounding sleep health in the simplest and most cost-effective way possible.

🦷

Oral Appliance

Recommended for mild-moderate OSA
  • Custom-fitted device
  • No mask or machine
  • Quiet and portable
  • High compliance rates
  • Comfortable to wear
😷

CPAP Machine

For moderate to severe OSA
  • Continuous air pressure
  • Requires mask
  • Can be noisy
  • Not portable
  • Lower compliance rates
🏥

Surgery

For specific anatomical issues
  • Removes excess tissue
  • Invasive procedure
  • Recovery required
  • Not always effective
  • Reserved for severe cases

How Oral Appliances Work

Treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliances provides the least invasive option and often a good choice for mild to moderate OSA. A carefully calibrated appliance can comfortably help hold the jaw in a precise position throughout the night, allowing critical oxygen flow.

The custom oral appliance, similar to a sports mouthguard, gently positions your lower jaw slightly forward. This forward positioning prevents the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing into the airway, keeping it open throughout the night.

The Oral Appliance Process

1

Sleep Study Diagnosis

First, you'll need a diagnosis from a sleep physician. If indicated, a dentist trained in sleep medicine works with the sleep doctor to treat OSA with oral appliance therapy.

2

Consultation with Dr. Kezele

Dr. Kezele evaluates your oral health, jaw position, and airway anatomy to determine if you're a good candidate for oral appliance therapy.

3

Custom Fabrication

Precise impressions are taken of your teeth and bite. The appliance is custom-fabricated to fit comfortably and position your jaw optimally.

4

Fitting and Calibration

The appliance is carefully adjusted to the precise position needed to maintain your airway for effective sleep apnea treatment.

5

Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments ensure the appliance remains effective. We coordinate with your sleep physician to monitor your progress.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

😷 No Mask Required
🔇 Completely Quiet
✈️ Portable & Travel-Friendly
😴 High Compliance Rates
🦷 Custom-Fitted Comfort
💪 Clinically Proven Effective

Protect Your Health with Treatment

All treatment recommendations should be made in consultation with your sleep physician. Once a treatment path that you can use consistently is chosen, Dr. Kezele can provide critical support for your efforts.

Don't let sleep apnea silently damage your health. If you experience symptoms or have been diagnosed but struggle with CPAP compliance, oral appliance therapy may be the solution. Contact our Yakima office to take the first step toward better sleep and better health.