If you’ve recently started sleep apnea treatment in Rockledge, Florida you may wonder how to enhance your results and improve your sleep even further. Our dentist and her dedicated team offer effective treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA),—the most common type of sleep apnea. In addition to the professional care you receive from our sleep medicine team, you can make several lifestyle adjustments to supplement your treatment and enjoy better sleep and overall health.
Dr. Prill and her team are always here to support you. Whether you’re new to sleep apnea treatment or have been managing it for a while, we invite you to visit our practice.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a breathing-related sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep, causing the airway to become partially or fully blocked. This leads to repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the night, which can result in snoring, poor sleep quality, and several health risks such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Dr. Prill is certified in Dental Sleep Medicine by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), ensuring you receive the highest level of care for your sleep apnea needs. As an expert in Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)—an increasingly popular and comfortable option—she is dedicated to providing effective treatments that don’t require invasive surgery or bulky CPAP machines.
The Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)
For years, CPAP machines were considered the “gold standard” for treating sleep apnea. However, many patients find Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) to be a more convenient and effective option. With OAT, a custom-made device is worn in the mouth while you sleep, gently repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open. This non-invasive solution can provide significant relief for those suffering from OSA, especially when combined with lifestyle changes that support better sleep.
When you supplement OAT with healthy sleep habits and lifestyle modifications, you can reduce sleep apnea symptoms, enjoy more restful nights, and improve your overall quality of life.
How to Supplement Your Sleep Apnea Treatment
To maximize the benefits of your sleep apnea treatment, you can make several lifestyle changes. Here are some tips for improving your sleep and health while undergoing sleep apnea therapy at Signature Smile Family Dentistry:
1. Sleep on Your Side
Sleeping on your back can worsen OSA by allowing the tongue and soft tissues to collapse into the airway. Sleeping on your side can help keep your airway clear.
2. Use the Right Pillow
Certain pillows can improve your sleep posture and help reduce apnea episodes. Ask Dr. Prill for pillow recommendations that best suit your needs.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you are overweight, excess fat around the neck can put pressure on the airway, worsening sleep apnea. Losing weight can significantly reduce symptoms. However, you must consult your doctor before beginning any weight loss program.
4. Choose the Right Mattress
A good mattress can help support proper sleep posture and improve sleep quality. Select a mattress that accommodates your body and sleep apnea symptoms.
5. Avoid Technology
Minimize exposure to screens before bedtime, as the blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and TVs can disrupt your sleep patterns.
6. Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Go to bed and wake up simultaneously every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock, promoting better sleep.
7. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine
Avoid alcohol and caffeine later in the day, as they can interfere with your sleep and worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
8. Cut Down on Sugary Foods
High sugar intake can negatively affect sleep. Choose healthier snacks, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.
9. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity helps improve sleep, but try to avoid intense exercise right before bed, as it can have a stimulating effect.
10. Don’t Stay in Bed Awake
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, avoid staying in bed for extended periods. Get up and do something relaxing until you feel sleepy.
11. Quit Smoking
Smoking can irritate the airways and worsen OSA symptoms. Quitting can improve your overall health and help reduce sleep apnea episodes.
12. Avoid Napping
Daytime naps can interfere with your ability to fall asleep at night. Try to stick to nighttime sleep to improve your overall rest.
Understanding Sleep Apnea and Weight Management
Weight plays a significant role in sleep apnea for many individuals. Being overweight can narrow the airway, leading to breathing obstructions during sleep. If you are overweight and have OSA, losing weight and exercising regularly may significantly improve your symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that sleep apnea can affect individuals of all body types, and not everyone with OSA is overweight.
Additional behavior modifications and lifestyle changes may be necessary for some to manage sleep apnea effectively. Dr. Prill and her team can guide you in making the adjustments that best support your treatment and overall well-being.
Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation
If you or your partner are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, such as snoring or daytime fatigue, it’s important to seek professional care. At Signature Smile Family Dentistry in Rockledge, FL we provide effective solutions for sleep apnea that can help you achieve better sleep and improved health.
Call Dr. Hilary Prill today at (321) 633-4020 whether you’re interested in sleep apnea treatment or want to schedule a routine dental checkup, our team is here to help. Let us guide you to better sleep and overall wellness!
