Expert Sleep Apnea Treatment in Tulsa with Dr. Mark E. Massaro
Do I have sleep apnea if I snore?
While chronic snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, not everyone who snores has this condition. Other symptoms such as waking with a dry mouth, persistent daytime fatigue, and mood changes are also indicators. A sleep study is essential for a definitive diagnosis.
Discover restful nights and rejuvenating sleep with sleep apnea treatment at Dr. Mark E. Massaro's practice in Tulsa, OK. Understanding the significant health risks associated with obstructive sleep apnea, including its impact on sleep quality, cardiovascular health, mood, and memory, our office provides advanced and comfortable solutions tailored to each patient's needs.
What causes sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can result from various factors, including throat tissue bulk, oral tissue development, jaw alignment, lifestyle habits, and certain medications. Addressing these factors, alongside treatment, can significantly improve airway health and sleep quality.
How effective is oral appliance therapy?
The effectiveness of oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea is typically confirmed through a follow-up sleep study, assessing changes in breathing and sleep patterns. Patients also often report immediate improvements in energy levels and overall well-being.
Will the oral appliance be uncomfortable or harm my teeth?
The EMA appliance is crafted from hard acrylic and soft elastic bands to precise specifications, ensuring comfort. It is generally considered more comfortable and less intrusive than CPAP machines and offers the added benefit of protecting against bruxism.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start repeatedly. This can lead to severely disrupted sleep patterns and, if untreated, contribute to more severe health issues. Factors leading to sleep apnea can include jaw alignment issues, soft tissue development in the mouth, excessive weight, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Daytime fatigue
- Memory loss
- Irritability and depression
- Gasping for air or excessive snoring during sleep
Dr. Massaro’s Approach to Sleep Apnea Treatment
At our Tulsa practice, Dr. Mark Massaro utilizes oral appliance therapy to treat confirmed cases of sleep apnea. Our custom-fitted Elastic Mandibular Advancement (EMA) appliances are designed to comfortably and effectively maintain an open airway by positioning the lower jaw forward. This simple, non-invasive solution contrasts with the more cumbersome CPAP machines, offering restful sleep without masks or noise.
Benefits of EMA Appliances Include:
- Portability and ease of use
- Minimal discomfort and adjustment period
- Doubles as protection against teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Allows for sleeping in any position without obstruction
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation in Tulsa
If you're experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, don't wait to seek treatment. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Massaro to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward better sleep and health. Call our Tulsa office today at (918) 743-9924 or visit our contact page for more information.
Rediscover the benefits of a good night's sleep with Dr. Mark E. Massaro's personalized sleep apnea treatments in Tulsa, OK.