Sleep Apnea Treatment in Irvine, CA

Expert Solutions for Restful Sleep and Better Health

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor oxygen levels, disrupted rest, and long-term health risks. Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and chronic fatigue. If you or a loved one struggle with loud snoring, daytime drowsiness, or frequent nighttime awakenings, seeking professional treatment is essential.

At Honest Oral Surgeon in Irvine, CA, our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Eric Kim and Dr. Blair Ota, specialize in advanced sleep apnea treatments to restore proper breathing and improve sleep quality. Our customized approach ensures patients receive the most effective non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to their needs.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the tongue and soft tissues collapse against the airway, restricting airflow. As a result, the brain signals the body to partially awaken, causing sudden gasping or choking as breathing resumes. This process can happen dozens or even hundreds of times per night, severely impacting sleep quality.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

Excess weight – Fat deposits around the neck can block the airway.
Jaw and airway anatomy – A small jaw, enlarged tonsils, or nasal obstruction can contribute to sleep apnea.
Age and gender – Men and older adults are at higher risk.
Family history – A genetic predisposition may increase the likelihood of developing OSA.
Chronic nasal congestion – Difficulty breathing through the nose can worsen symptoms.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Many people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed because they do not realize their symptoms are related to a sleep disorder. Common signs include:

Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
Loud snoring, often noticed by a partner
Frequent nighttime awakenings or gasping for air
Daytime fatigue and drowsiness, even after a full night’s sleep
Morning headaches and difficulty concentrating
Memory loss and mood changes, including irritability or depression
Restless sleep and frequent tossing and turning

If you experience any of these symptoms, a sleep study may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

At Honest Oral Surgeon, we offer effective, patient-friendly treatments for obstructive sleep apnea, including custom oral appliances and advanced surgical options.

1. Oral Appliance Therapy

For mild to moderate cases, an oral appliance (Jaw Advancing Device or Mandibular Advancement Device) can help keep the airway open by:

Gently repositioning the lower jaw forward to prevent airway collapse.
Increasing the size of the upper airway, reducing airflow resistance.
Improving sleep quality without requiring bulky CPAP machines.

Our custom-fitted oral appliances are designed for comfort and effectiveness, making them a popular alternative to CPAP therapy.

2. Surgical Solutions for Severe Sleep Apnea

For patients with severe OSA or structural airway obstructions, surgery may be necessary. Options include:

Jaw Surgery – Corrects jaw misalignment that contributes to airway blockage.
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery – Removes excess soft tissue or corrects structural abnormalities affecting breathing.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) – Removes excess throat tissue to expand the airway.
Tongue Reduction Surgery – Reduces the size of an enlarged tongue, which can block airflow.
Bone Grafting – Supports jawbone structure for patients needing dental implants or surgical intervention.

We work closely with sleep specialists and ENT doctors to determine the best surgical approach when needed.

The Sleep Apnea Treatment Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Consultation & Sleep Study Review

We begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and medical history.
If needed, we coordinate with sleep physicians to arrange a sleep study for diagnosis.

Step 2: Treatment Planning

We recommend oral appliance therapy for mild to moderate cases.
For severe cases, we assess the need for surgical intervention.

Step 3: Custom Treatment Implementation

Oral appliances are custom-fitted for comfort and effectiveness.
Surgical treatments are performed when necessary, with follow-up care for optimal results.

Step 4: Ongoing Monitoring & Adjustments

We provide long-term follow-up care to ensure successful treatment outcomes.
Regular adjustments help maintain improved breathing and sleep quality.

Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea

Restores uninterrupted, restful sleep
Eliminates snoring and frequent awakenings
Reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure
Improves daytime focus, energy, and overall well-being
Provides a comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy

Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications. Seeking timely treatment can improve sleep quality and protect long-term health.

Why Choose Honest Oral Surgeon for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

At Honest Oral Surgeon, we provide advanced, personalized treatment solutions for sleep apnea. Our team offers:

Board-Certified Expertise – Dr. Eric Kim and Dr. Blair Ota are experienced in airway surgery and sleep disorder treatments.
State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Technology – We use 3D imaging to evaluate jaw and airway structure.
Customized Oral Appliances – Designed for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Comprehensive Care – We collaborate with sleep specialists, ENT doctors, and pulmonologists for complete treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea

Do I need a sleep study before treatment?

Yes, a sleep study helps determine the severity of your condition and whether oral appliance therapy or surgery is the best option.

Is an oral appliance better than CPAP therapy?

For many patients, oral appliances offer a more comfortable, less invasive alternative to CPAP machines. However, CPAP is still the preferred treatment for severe sleep apnea.

Can losing weight cure sleep apnea?

Weight loss can improve symptoms, but it may not eliminate the need for treatment. Many patients with normal weight also suffer from sleep apnea due to jaw and airway structure issues.

What happens if I leave sleep apnea untreated?

Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. It also affects mental clarity, mood, and overall quality of life.

How long does it take to adjust to an oral appliance?

Most patients adjust within a few weeks and experience significant improvement in sleep quality.

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Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation Today

If you or a loved one suffer from loud snoring, restless sleep, or excessive daytime fatigue, professional treatment can help. Contact Honest Oral Surgeon today to schedule an evaluation.