Sleep Apnea Colorado Springs CO

If you have experienced sleep issues and trouble sleeping, you are not alone. Many adults struggle with not only falling asleep but staying asleep. But what you might not realize is that there is an underlying issue occurring that requires treatment. For patients dealing with poor quality sleep, Dr. Mark H. Wright of Colorado Springs, Colorado, may suggest a sleep study to evaluate an individual for obstructive sleep apnea.

Understanding what obstructive sleep apnea is

Dr. Mark H. Wright describes obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, as a specific sleeping disorder that can negatively impact one’s quality of sleep each night. This is because the patient with OSA will experience blockages in their airways that keep them from reaching the deep levels of sleep they need as they are unable to breathe. The patient awakens, then falls back asleep, only for the cycle to continue all night long. In severe obstructive sleep apnea cases, patients often experience disruptions in their sleep hundreds of times in one night. These patients will wake up tired, even if they “slept” through the night. Patients who undergo a sleep study and are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea will often be given a CPAP machine from their primary care physician. This device is worn at night to keep the airways open and ensure better sleep. However, this contraption can be uncomfortable, causing many patients to stop using them.

Instead, dentists such as Dr. Mark H. Wright may recommend the use of an oral appliance. Instead of a large, cumbersome device, patients can wear a specialized, custom mouthguard that can be comfortably worn at night to accomplish the same results without being nearly as invasive.

Learn more about the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with our dentist

Dr. Mark H. Wright and his team are dedicated to offering the best possible care for new and established patients in the area of Colorado Springs, Colorado. We strongly encourage patients who are unhappy with CPAP therapy to speak to our provider about alternative options such as oral appliance therapy. Call (719) 624-4122 to request a consultation appointment with our team. We are dedicated to helping individuals improve their quality of life, especially when they have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea and are tired of wearing their uncomfortable CPAP device.