Sleep Apnea

Verified and Qualified by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people. Characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, it can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even serious health issues such as heart disease and high blood pressure. At our Irvine dental office, we provide effective sleep apnea treatments to help you achieve better sleep and improve your quality of life.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes blocked or collapses during sleep, temporarily stopping your breathing. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is caused by relaxed throat muscles. Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Frequent waking or gasping for air
• Daytime fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating

If left untreated, sleep apnea can have significant impacts on your overall health, which is why early diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Customized Mouthguards for Sleep Apnea

For mild to moderate sleep apnea, custom oral appliances such as mouthguards offer a comfortable and effective solution. These devices are worn during sleep and are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping your airway open.

Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, our custom-made appliances are specifically tailored to fit your teeth and jaw structure, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. Many patients prefer this option as it is non-invasive, portable, and easy to use.

CPAP Machines

For individuals with more severe sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is often recommended. A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open throughout the night.

While CPAP therapy is highly effective, some patients find the device challenging to use due to discomfort or noise. If you struggle with CPAP therapy, we can discuss alternative options, such as combination therapy with oral appliances, to improve your treatment experience.

Why Choose an Irvine Dentist for Sleep Apnea?

Dentists trained in sleep medicine play a vital role in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. We work closely with sleep specialists to ensure you receive a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our approach focuses on non-invasive solutions and personalized care to help you achieve restful sleep without unnecessary discomfort.

Don’t Ignore the Signs of Sleep Apnea

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment promptly. A good night’s sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being, and effective treatments are available to help you breathe easy and wake up refreshed.

Contact our Irvine office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better sleep and improved health!

Sleep Apnea Device

We take sleep apnea seriously.  We understand how sleep apnea and snoring can destroy one’s health. 

If you’re not sleeping properly, a sleep study test is a great place to start.  A sleep study measures your body functions while you sleep.  This study helps diagnose sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and other sleep disorders. 

The sleep study machine arrives in the mail to your home.  Your sleep data will be recorded through a finger and chest monitor.  The data from your night of sleep is sent to a Pulmonologist for diagnosis.  At this point, you will know if you have sleep apnea or not.  If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are two main options for treatment. 

C-Pap Device – A machine that uses air pressure to keep breathing airways open while you sleep.

Dental Sleep Device (MAD – Mandibular Advancement Device) – They work by pulling your lower jaw (mandible) forward.

Many patients cannot tolerate a C-Pap Machine and opt for the Dental Sleep Device. 

Dr. Passamano is proud to be an accredited member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), the leading professional organization for dentists who treat sleep-disordered breathing, including obstructive sleep apnea. Founded in 1991, the AADSM sets the clinical and ethical standards for dental sleep medicine across the country.

To earn his accreditation, Dr. Passamano demonstrated his expertise with sleep medicine by submitting documented clinical experience, completing continuing education courses, and passing a comprehensive examination. He undergoes ongoing recertification to stay current with the latest developments in the field.

He also has personal experience with sleep apnea treatment, as he suffers from the condition himself. He has used multiple sleep apnea devices and knows the ins and outs of what works. You can be confident that Dr. Passamano’s recommendations are informed by his own journey towards managing sleep apnea.

Schedule your sleep apnea consultation at My Dentist Joe to take the first steps toward healthy, restful sleep.