“My sleep apnea and snoring are killing me – how do I find great sleep dentistry near me?” If you have spoken these or similar words lately, you know the challenge of trying to find an outstanding practitioner. Not all dentists are qualified to treat sleep issues, and of those that are, not all provide truly comprehensive care that can protect your long-term systemic health.
Dr. Matthew Bridges of Chisholm Trail Smile Center is a highly trained dentist. He offers thorough, effective care for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. Contact us today to learn more about our treatments and why our practice is an outstanding choice when searching for sleep dentistry near me.
1. Choose Someone with Specialized Training
Sleep apnea and snoring treatment is a specialized branch of dentistry. Dr. Bridges has been named a Qualified Dentist by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. This organization describes itself as “the only professional society dedicated exclusively to the medical subspecialty of sleep medicine.” It has rigorous standards for certification and continuing education. In short, when you choose a dentist who has been qualified by this organization, you know you will be receiving treatment from someone with a high level of expertise and skill.
2. Find a practitioner who offers detailed diagnoses.
Snoring is one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. But not everyone who snores has OSA, and not everyone with OSA snores. That is why it is important to find a sleep dentist who understands the many varied symptoms of this disorder. Dr. Bridges will provide a home sleep test, a wearable monitor that will collect comprehensive data about your sleep cycles and patterns. This will enable him to provide a more accurate and thorough diagnosis.
3. Search for someone who understands the systemic impact of OSA.
Obstructive sleep apnea can have major effects for your overall physical wellness. Left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness. Thanks to his advanced training, Dr. Brides is fully aware of these systemic issues.
4. Look for someone who treats sleep conditions collaboratively.
Because of the overall health risks associated with sleep apnea, it can often be more effective to take a team approach to treatment. While a dentist can provide the necessary oral treatment, a medical doctor can address other health issues that may play a contributing role in the development of the condition. Dr. Bridges collaborates with a local sleep specialist, Dr. Jones, so you are guaranteed truly comprehensive care.
5. Find a dentist who offers multiple treatment options.
Through his collaboration with Dr. Jones, Dr. Bridges follows the joint clinical practice guidelines for oral appliance therapy, issued by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. These guidelines suggest that CPAP therapy is often the most effective treatment for sleep apnea. A CPAP device emits a stream of air through a mask so that patients’ throats remain clear and open while they sleep. Though this can be effective, however, many patients are unable to tolerate the devices. In these instances, oral appliance therapy can be a great alternative.
Like those made to treat TMJ Disorder, oral appliances are tailor-made devices that fit over the teeth and gently realign the jaw. This helps to tighten soft tissues in the palate and throat, keeping the airways open. Dr. Bridges can provide very comfortable and effective appliances. At the same time, he can also guide you in making lifestyle choices, such as weight loss or quitting smoking, which can reduce your risk for OSA.
Still searching for sleep dentistry near me? Contact us today!
Stop looking for “sleep dentistry near me” and start enjoying a full night’s rest. To learn more about our sleep apnea and snoring treatment and to find out why Dr. Bridges is a great choice for your care, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. You can reach us online or call us at 580-255-4880.
