Your Path to Better Rest
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can occur hundreds of times throughout the night, preventing your body from getting the restorative rest it needs. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when throat muscles relax excessively, blocking your airway.
Common symptoms include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
- High blood pressure
Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Dr. Foleck and his team of dentists emphasize the importance of early intervention to prevent these long-term health risks.
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
At The Foleck Center, diagnosing sleep apnea begins with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. Our team works closely with sleep specialists to provide accurate diagnoses through:
Sleep Studies
- Home sleep tests that monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate
- Laboratory sleep studies (polysomnography) for complex cases
- Detailed analysis of sleep architecture and breathing events
Physical Examination
- Evaluation of throat, nose, and mouth anatomy
- Assessment of jaw alignment and dental structure
- Identification of physical factors contributing to airway obstruction
Medical History Review
- Analysis of sleep patterns and symptoms
- Evaluation of existing health conditions
- Review of current medications
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
The Foleck Center offers various treatment approaches based on your specific needs and diagnosis severity. Our dentists create personalized treatment plans that may include:
Oral Appliance Therapy
- Custom-fitted dental devices
- Repositions the jaw to maintain an open airway
- Comfortable alternative to CPAP machines
- Regular adjustments for optimal effectiveness
CPAP Alternatives
- Advanced dental solutions
- Combination therapy approaches
- Lifestyle modification guidance
Surgical Interventions (when necessary)
- Advanced dental solutions
- Combination therapy approaches
- Lifestyle modification guidance
Dr. Foleck maintains strong partnerships with sleep physicians throughout Virginia to provide coordinated care for complex cases requiring multiple treatment approaches.
Understanding the Full Spectrum of Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Sleep apnea isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition—and neither is its treatment. At The Foleck Center, we understand the differences between mild obstructive sleep apnea, moderate sleep apnea, and severe sleep apnea, as well as conditions like central sleep apnea that originate in the brain rather than the airway. Our team collaborates with sleep medicine experts to ensure each treatment plan is built around your diagnosis and personal health profile.
In many cases, positive airway pressure remains the cornerstone of treatment. For those with severe obstructive sleep apnea, a CPAP machine or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) device may be prescribed to deliver the precise air pressure needed to keep the upper airway open during sleep. These devices can significantly reduce apnea events and help improve blood oxygen levels throughout the night.
Patients who cannot tolerate traditional CPAP therapy may benefit from custom dental appliances or emerging therapies like hypoglossal nerve stimulation, depending on the severity and type of their condition. If you’re experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, it may be a sign your sleep apnea treatment plan needs to be adjusted. That’s why we regularly monitor patients and fine-tune therapies such as oral appliance therapy, pressure settings, and sleep position recommendations to improve results.
Lifestyle and Health Factors That Influence Treatment
Managing risk factors is also essential to improving outcomes. Factors such as body weight, alcohol consumption, and sleeping pills can all influence the severity of sleep disordered breathing. For some patients, medically supervised weight loss or even bariatric surgery may be part of a broader treatment strategy for obstructive sleep apnea. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease, cardiovascular disease, and a high body mass index are often connected to the underlying causes of sleep apnea and are addressed during our comprehensive evaluations.
Behavioral changes—such as avoiding back sleeping and adopting positional therapy techniques—can be especially effective for individuals with mild sleep apnea. Additionally, strengthening upper airway muscles through targeted exercise training may complement primary treatments and improve sleep quality over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does oral appliance therapy compare to CPAP machines?
While CPAP machines are effective, many patients find oral appliances more comfortable and easier to use. Our dentist can help determine if you’re a good candidate for oral appliance therapy based on your specific condition and preferences.
Will my insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?
Many insurance plans cover sleep apnea treatment. Our office staff works directly with insurance providers to maximize your benefits and explain coverage options.
How long does it take to adjust to an oral appliance?
Most patients adapt to their oral appliance within 2-3 weeks. Our Dentist provides detailed guidance and support throughout the adjustment period to help you achieve optimal results.
Can sleep apnea resolve on its own?
Sleep apnea typically requires professional treatment to resolve. While lifestyle changes can help, medical intervention is usually necessary for significant improvement.
How soon will I notice improvements with treatment?
Many patients report improved sleep quality within the first few nights of treatment. However, full benefits may take several weeks to develop as your body adjusts to consistent, uninterrupted sleep.
Your Gateway to Restful Sleep and Better Health in Coastal Virginia
If you’re struggling with snoring, restless nights, or daytime fatigue, The Foleck Center is here to help. With convenient locations in Hampton, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach, we offer non-invasive, dental-based treatments for sleep apnea that can restore your energy and protect your long-term health.
Don’t let untreated sleep apnea impact your quality of life. Take the first step toward better sleep today—schedule your consultation and join the many Coastal Virginia patients who’ve reclaimed their rest through expert care at The Foleck Center. A healthier, more energized you is closer than you think.
