Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder caused by airway blockages that disrupt breathing during sleep. These blockages often result from the tongue shifting backward or the collapse of soft tissues in the throat. Because OSA occurs while a person is asleep, it can go unnoticed for a long time. Often, family members or partners are the first to recognize signs of disrupted breathing.
Repeated pauses in breathing define OSA—sometimes lasting 10 seconds or longer—that can occur multiple times per hour. Left untreated, this condition increases the risk of serious health complications, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver dysfunction.
Signs and Symptoms of OSA
Common indicators of sleep apnea include:
- Loud or persistent snoring
- Gasping or choking sensations during sleep
- Frequent breathing interruptions
- Waking up short of breath
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Daytime fatigue or excessive drowsiness
- Restless, fragmented sleep
- Irritability, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia or trouble staying asleep
Sleep Apnea Treatment at Rock Creek Dental
Rock Creek Dental offers effective treatment options to help you breathe better and sleep more soundly. For mild to moderate OSA, we often recommend oral appliance therapy, which uses a custom-fitted device to keep your airway open throughout the night. For more severe cases, we collaborate with medical professionals and specialists to explore surgical solutions or other advanced treatments.
We aim to help you regain restful sleep and protect your long-term health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kelly Reynolds and Dr. Derrick Peck and learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Red Lodge, Montana. Better sleep starts here!