Comprehensive Sleep Apnea Treatment in Shelby Township, Michigan
Many patients tell me they have been struggling with tiredness, snoring, or restless sleep for years without realizing sleep apnea might be the reason. If you’ve been feeling exhausted despite getting what seems like a full night’s rest, you’re not alone. As a Shelby Township MI dentist with years of experience treating sleep disorders, I understand how frustrating and concerning these symptoms can be.
When the airway collapses during sleep, the body has to work harder just to get enough oxygen. Over time, this affects energy, focus, heart health, and overall well-being. The good news is that this is very treatable once we determine what is going on.
Understanding Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Some typical sleep apnea symptoms include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, pauses in breathing that a partner may notice, morning headaches, a dry mouth, or simply feeling worn out even after a full night of sleep. Many people describe feeling foggy or dragging through the day.
Additional symptoms that patients commonly experience include:
- Difficulty concentrating at work or home
- Mood changes or irritability
- Frequent trips to the bathroom during the night
- Memory problems
Why Sleep Apnea Treatment Matters
Sleep apnea is not something to ignore. When the airway repeatedly closes during sleep, the body does not get the oxygen it needs, and this places strain on several systems, especially the heart. Patients often tell me that they felt frustrated or discouraged before finally getting answers. Once we stabilize the airway, however, it is common to see meaningful improvements in how a person feels day to day.
Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to serious health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. That’s why addressing snoring and sleep disruption early is so important for your long-term health.
Treatment Options Beyond CPAP
While CPAP is a common treatment, it is not the only option. Many of my patients come to me because they want something effective that they can actually use comfortably. A custom oral appliance can be a good solution for many people. It works by gently positioning the lower jaw to help keep the airway open during sleep. It is small, quiet, and travels easily.
Custom oral appliances offer several advantages:
- No electricity or machines required
- Silent operation (perfect for travel)
- Comfortable fit designed specifically for your mouth
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Highly portable for business trips or vacations
These devices are particularly effective for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea and those who have struggled with CPAP compliance.
Advanced Diagnostic Technology
To determine the best approach, I use CBCT imaging to evaluate the airway, jaw joints, and bite. This is important because sleep apnea and TMJ problems often overlap, and both need to be considered so treatment is effective and comfortable. Everything is done right here in our office, which makes the process easier for patients.
This three-dimensional imaging allows me to:
- Assess airway dimensions and potential blockages
- Evaluate jaw joint health and function
- Plan the most effective treatment approach
- Design custom appliances with precision
Your Next Steps
If someone has symptoms of sleep apnea or has already completed a sleep study, I am happy to review the results and talk through their options in a way that is easy to understand. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your specific symptoms, review any previous sleep studies, and determine if an oral appliance is right for you.
You’ll receive personalized care from me, Dr. Barbat, a dentist who understands both sleep medicine and comprehensive dental procedures. Many patients appreciate having their sleep apnea treatment coordinated with their regular dental care.
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation
Don’t let poor sleep continue to impact your health and quality of life. Our Shelby Township, MI dentist office is ready to help you find the relief you deserve. Our front office team can help schedule a visit at 586-739-2155 or through the appointment request on this site.
Take the first step toward better sleep and improved health. Contact our office today to learn more about sleep apnea treatment options that can help you wake up refreshed and energized every morning.
