A correct sleep apnea diagnosis is the first step to treating this horrible sleeping problem. Correctly identifying sleep apnea and what type of sleep apnea it is must be the first step. There are three types of sleep apnea; Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Central Sleep Apnea and Mixed Sleep Apnea. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the most common type, can be treated by a dentist because it is caused by an obstruction in the airway, normally the tongue, that stops the breathing process. Cental Sleep Apnea is much rarer and is caused by the brain not being able to correctly send signals for the body to breathe. Mixed Sleep Apnea is a combination of the two.

       For a correct sleep apnea diagnosis the patient must be able to clearly describe the symptoms. To aid with a correct diagnosis a sleep study is usually performed. This allows doctors to get a better understanding of exactly what is happening to you while sleeping. If you have Cental Sleep Apnea there is nothing that a dentist can do for you because a dentist can do nothing about brain functions. Mixed sleep apnea may be treated both by a doctor and a dentist working together to relieve the symptoms of sleep apnea.

       Once the sleep apnea diagnosis is complete, if you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, you need an experienced sleep apnea dentist. A sleep apnea dental appliance is a common form of sleep apnea treatment. Sleep apnea surgery is another option but does not always prove effective. Sleep apnea dental treatment should be done by an dentist experienced with sleep apnea.

       If you believe you are having a problem with sleep apnea and would like a sleep apnea diagnosis and would like to learn more about what you can do, please consider visiting us at the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team is one of the most experienced in Atlanta with over 20 years of experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like schedule an appointment with our Atlanta dentist, call to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.