Sleep Apnea Treatment in Stamford, CT
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can affect your quality of life, energy levels, and overall health. At Bartley Family Orthodontics, we understand how disruptive poor sleep can be. That’s why we offer tailored sleep apnea treatment in Stamford, CT through oral appliance therapy and collaborative care with sleep physicians.
If you or a loved one is struggling with snoring, daytime fatigue, or disrupted sleep, we’re here to help. Our goal is to identify whether orthodontic intervention—or a combination of therapies—can help you breathe easier and sleep better.
What Is Sleep Apnea & Orthodontic Treatment Options
Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. These interruptions often stem from airway collapse or obstruction, especially when lying down. It can lead to serious health consequences, including hypertension, cardiovascular strain, and increased risk of metabolic disorders.
As an orthodontic practice, we do not replace medical sleep specialists. However, we offer oral appliance therapy as a non‑invasive alternative or adjunct to CPAP in appropriate cases. An oral appliance is a custom device worn in the mouth during sleep that helps hold the lower jaw forward or keep the airway open, reducing obstructions and interruptions.
Benefits of Orthodontic‑Based Sleep Apnea Treatment
When selected and managed properly, orthodontic sleep apnea therapies can:
- Reduce snoring and breathing interruptions
- Improve oxygen saturation during sleep
- Enhance overall sleep quality and daytime alertness
- Offer a comfortable, less bulky alternative to CPAP for mild to moderate cases
- Integrate with existing orthodontic treatments if needed
These benefits make oral appliance therapy a valued tool for many Stamford patients seeking relief.
Diagnostic & Treatment Process
To deliver effective sleep apnea treatment, we follow a structured, evidence‑based process:
- Screening & Referral — We begin with a sleep health questionnaire and orthodontic airway evaluation. If we detect signs of obstructive sleep apnea, we refer patients to a board‑certified sleep physician for formal diagnosis (polysomnography or home sleep study).
- Sleep Physician Collaboration — We work hand in hand with medical sleep providers to interpret study results and determine which patients are good candidates for an oral appliance.
- Custom Appliance Design & Fitting — When indicated, we create a personalized oral appliance based on jaw movements, dental structure, and airway anatomy. We ensure snug, comfortable fit and adjustability.
- Titration & Monitoring — Over several follow-up visits, we gradually titrate (adjust) the device to improve breathing while maintaining comfort. We monitor efficacy with follow-up sleep evaluations, either via patient feedback or repeat sleep testing.
- Ongoing Support & Maintenance — Regular checkups help ensure appliance fit, oral health, and long-term function. Adjustments or refinements may be needed over time.
Who Can Benefit from Oral Appliance Therapy
Not every patient with sleep apnea is a candidate for orthodontic approaches. Ideal candidates often exhibit:
- Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Intolerance of or preference over CPAP therapy
- No severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems
- Sufficient dental structure to support an appliance
- Good overall oral health
Severe cases often still require CPAP or combined therapies, so our cooperation with sleep physicians ensures safe, effective care.
Why Choose Bartley Family Orthodontics?
Choosing a practice experienced in airway, orthodontics, and appliance therapy makes all the difference. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Orthodontic & airway expertise — We understand how facial growth, jaw relationships, and dental anatomy impact breathing.
- Custom, patient-centered care — Each appliance is made for you, and adjustments are handled carefully and precisely.
- Collaborative treatment — We partner with sleep physicians to coordinate diagnosis, follow-up, and outcomes.
- Supportive environment — From explaining options to ongoing care, we guide patients through every step.
- Strategic location — Serving Stamford and surrounding communities, our office offers convenient access and scheduling.
Contact Bartley Family Orthodontics today to learn whether sleep apnea treatment with oral appliances is right for you.