Discover Sleep Medicine at Medical Arts Dentistry
At Medical Arts Dentistry, our dedicated team strives to provide comprehensive care that caters to the diverse needs of our patients, including cosmetic, general, and family dental services aimed at enhancing oral health. Within the scope of general dentistry, our dentist specializes in sleep medicine to address sleep disorders like snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Dr. Roher is passionate about helping patients manage these conditions to improve their sleep quality.
What is Sleep Medicine?
Sleep medicine is a specialized field that allows dentists to train in the use of oral appliance therapy to treat various sleep disorders. This approach enables dentists to prescribe devices, such as mandibular repositioners, to adjust the position of the jaw, throat muscles, and tongue, promoting better sleep.
Dentists who focus on sleep medicine have extensive knowledge of sleep disorders and related behaviors. They are skilled in designing and selecting oral devices tailored to address the unique needs of each patient. These credentials are earned through accredited organizations like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AADSM) and the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABDSM). These professionals are also committed to staying updated on new advancements in sleep disorder treatments by following academic journals and research on the prevalence and treatment of sleep disorders.
How Sleep Medicine Works
Treating sleep disorders is a collaborative effort between dentists and sleep physicians. Dentists specializing in sleep medicine often work closely with sleep specialists to receive referrals and ensure that patients receive the most effective care.
At Medical Arts Dentistry, Dr. Roher will begin by having you fill out a basic sleep questionnaire. If your responses suggest sleep apnea, Dr. Roher will perform further screenings and, if necessary, refer you for a sleep study. If the results confirm that you have sleep apnea but are not a candidate for CPAP therapy, Dr. Roher will recommend oral appliance therapy as an effective treatment option. This therapy uses devices such as mandibular repositioners, nighttime mouthguards, and tongue-retainer devices to improve sleep quality. After being fitted with an oral appliance, you may be referred back to your sleep physician for a follow-up sleep study to adjust the fit of the appliance as needed.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Treating Sleep Disorders
Opting for sleep medicine, including oral appliance therapy, can greatly enhance your quality of life. Patients who undergo treatment often experience improved sleep, higher energy levels, and better focus throughout the day. By addressing sleep disorders, you can improve your overall health, including your heart, body, and mind.
Oral appliance therapy is a particularly beneficial option for patients who suffer from CPAP intolerance or those seeking an alternative to traditional CPAP treatment. Additionally, sleep medicine can help manage conditions like snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and periodontal disease, highlighting the important mouth-body connection in achieving optimal health.
For more information about sleep medicine and oral appliance therapy, or to learn how we can help with sleep disorders, please contact Medical Arts Dentistry. Call (912) 921-0401 today to schedule your initial consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions about sleep medicine, sleep telemedicine, Inspire sleep apnea surgical implant technology, and more treatment options available at our practice.
