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Snoring is fairly common as 73 percent of people report to sleep with someone who tends to snore at night. In most cases, snoring is perfectly normal. However, for those who have excessively loud or chronic snoring, it may be an indication of a larger underlying problem. Chronic snoring one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing at night. It is estimated, nearly 18 million Americans suffer from the sleep disorder. It is predicted that number may be far higher as two to four Americans are suspected to have undiagnosed sleep apnea. Those who snore excessively need to undergo a sleep study to see if sleep apnea treatment in Encinitas is necessary.

What is Sleep Apnea?

The most common form of sleep apnea is caused from an obstruction in the airway. The soft tissues in the back of the throat collapse, causing the airways to narrow. As the airways narrow, snoring occurs. However, the complications of the narrowed air passages are far more serious than just snoring. As the airway collapse, it causes pauses in breathing to occur. These pauses in breathing can occur hundreds of times per night with each event potentially lasting longer than a minute. When left untreated, the long-term implications of the decreased oxygen cause potentially deadly complications on overall health. In addition, your quality of life will drastically decrease.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

To protect your health and quality of life, you must receive treatment for the sleep disorder. There are various treatment options available. Among the most common and preferred forms of treatment involves the use of oral appliances. Oral appliances are similar in look as athletic mouthguards. They are worn over the teeth at night while you sleep. The appliances work by repositioning the jaw forward to keep the airways open. Oral appliances are effective for treating cases of obstructive sleep apnea, as well as reducing chronic snoring.

In some cases, an oral appliance may not be effective, causing a CPAP machine to be needed. A CPAP machine is a device that is worn at night to deliver air through a mask that is worn of the mouth or nose. The light air stream works to keep the airways open, decreasing the number of pauses in breathing. While this treatment is effective, many tend to find it uncomfortable and inconvenient.

Your Dentist for Sleep Apnea

If you suffer from chronic snoring, it is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor to undergo a sleep study. During a sleep study, you will be monitored to determine if sleep apnea is the cause of the snoring. After analyzing the data from the study, a prescription will be written for treatment.

Dr. McElroy offers the sleep apnea treatment options you need to protect your health and sleep quality. Based on your individual needs and preference level, Dr. McElroy will determine which treatment will be the most suitable.

If you are in need of treatment for sleep apnea, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

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Encinitas Dentist for Teeth Cleanings, Pain-Free Dental Care, Gum Treatment, Dentures, Dental Implants, Invisalign, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, & More – Serving Encinitas, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido & San Diego, CA

Your Top-Rated Dentist in Encinitas, CA

"This is a fantastic Dentist, McElroy and the associates in the office are amazing. Our daughters enjoy every time they are here. Very good practice, highly suggested!!"

- Cody H.

"I would definitely recommend Smiles By Design dental office to anyone who is looking for a personable, honest, thorough, and professional dentist. Dr. McElroy and his staff make you feel so comfortable, you forget you are at the dentist!! Highly recommend!"

- Kelly C.

"Had my first appointment at McElroy smiles by design, and the staff was so friendly and informative. It was an enjoyable experience and I plan on going back in the future."

- Isaac W.

"Thanks to everyone in the office! Great service and very punctual. Dr.McElroy is a wonderful dentist, he is very professional and friendly. He does what it takes to do the job perfectly— even if it requires extra time. I needed a lot of work when I first came to the office, but now when its all done, I love the outcome and my new smile! I am stoked!!"

- Wera S.

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of McElroy Smiles. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

What To Expect On Your First Visit

Dr. McElroy is excited to provide you a $99 new patient special!

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Discuss Your Goals With Dr. McElroy

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Thorough Exam & Professional Cleaning

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Digital X-Rays

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Discuss Your Potential Treatment Options

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Bonus: Free copy of Dr. McEroy’s Book