Sleep Apnea in Houston, TX

Sleep apnea is a common disorder which affects breathing – causing one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths – during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes, occurring 30 or more times an hour. Because breathing is disrupted throughout the night, it is difficult to obtain a sufficient amount of deep sleep, as those affected by sleep apnea are moved into light sleep instead. This poor quality of sleep affects energy levels during the day, causing tiredness or sleepiness. At Sonrisa Dental in Houston, TX we offer different oral surgery procedures as a solution to relieve sleep apnea.

Surgical Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Surgical treatments for sleep apnea involves removing the excess tissue in the throat that is vibrating and blocking the upper air passages.

• One surgical procedure is called Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). This procedure, which is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia, removes the excess tissue from the upper mouth and throat.
• Another procedure that is used to help reduce sleep apnea is called Maxillomandibular Advancement, which modifies the upper and lower parts of the jaw. During this procedure, the jaw is moved forward and away from the rest of the facial bones, which allows more room behind the soft palate and reduces the obstruction.
• If other treatments have failed, one last option to treat sleep apnea is a Tracheostomy, which involves a tube being inserted into the throat to aid breathing.

All of these types of surgical treatments for sleep apnea are routine and very safe for the patient. To learn more about our sleep apnea treatments, and to discuss if you’re a candidate, book an appointment with our Houston, TX office today.