Airway therapy for healthier breathing and better sleep in Santa Barbara, CA

Breathing is one of the most essential things we do every day, and most of the time, we don’t give it a second thought. However, issues with the airway are incredibly common and can cause a wide range of negative symptoms and long-term health effects. At Whole Health Dentistry, we offer customized airway therapy for patients in the Santa Barbara, CA area to help them regain their health and vitality.

Symptoms that indicate an airway problem

Your mouth, nose, and throat are all intricately connected and must work in harmony for proper airflow. While many people don’t have any issues with breathing during the day, they can suffer from an often undiagnosed condition called obstructive sleep apnea at night. Others may experience issues such as chronic clenching and grinding or TMJ disorder that can lead to negative oral health impacts. While individual symptoms vary, some common issues that people who are suffering from airway issues include:

  • Frequent waking at night
  • Snoring
  • Waking up with headaches
  • Feeling tired and unrested in the morning
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Pain and tension in the jaw, neck, ears, or shoulders
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw
  • Mood disorders such as anxiety or depression

While these symptoms negatively affect your quality of life, patients who have sleep apnea are at higher risk for serious—and potentially deadly—conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and more that make it essential to seek treatment for the condition, not to mention cranky sleeping partners!

Dental treatment options for better airway health

While continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) was often the recommended treatment for many years, oral appliances are an alternative that is much more convenient, comfortable, and discreet can help you regain your health and well-being so you can start feeling like yourself again. Custom-made oral appliances (night guards) are FDA-approved for the treatment of mild to moderate sleep apnea and are designed to keep your airway open while you sleep at night to prevent the collapse of tissues that obstructs your breathing.

In addition, patients who clench and grind their teeth (bruxism) or who have symptoms of TMJ disorder can benefit from custom-made night guards to protect their teeth and joints from unnecessary wear and tear.

Schedule your consultation today!

There is no need to suffer from the negative effects of airway issues. Dr. Copeland will take the time to discuss your symptoms and evaluate your teeth, jaw, joints, and muscles to determine whether dental airway therapy is appropriate for your needs. To schedule your consultation, text Whole Health Dentistry in Santa Barbara, CA today at +1 (855) 441-0001.