What Your Oral Surgeon Can Do if You Stop Breathing In Your Sleep

Posted on 4/1/2025 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center

Woman sleeping after dental appointment at Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center in Livermore, CA

Do you snore loudly? Does your partner complain that you stop breathing during the night? If so, you may have a condition called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious problem that can lead to other health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

If you think you may have sleep apnea, it's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. But did you know that an oral surgeon can also play a role in your care?

How Oral Surgeons Can Help with Sleep Apnea

Oral surgeons are experts in the anatomy and function of the mouth, jaw, and face. This makes them uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat sleep apnea. In some cases, oral surgery may be the best option for treating sleep apnea, especially if other treatments, such as CPAP therapy, have not been successful.

There are several different types of oral surgery that can be used to treat sleep apnea. These include:

•	Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA): This surgery involves moving the upper and lower jaws forward, which opens up the airway and allows for easier breathing.
•	Hyoid suspension: This surgery involves attaching the hyoid bone, which supports the tongue, to the jawbone. This helps to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway.
•	Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): This surgery involves removing tissue from the soft palate and uvula, which are the fleshy structures at the back of the throat. This helps to widen the airway.
•	Tongue base reduction: This surgery involves removing a small amount of tissue from the base of the tongue. This helps to reduce the size of the tongue and make it less likely to block the airway.

Restoration Dentistry and Sleep Apnea

In addition to surgery, oral surgeons can also use restoration dentistry to treat sleep apnea. Restoration dentistry involves using dental devices to reposition the jaw or tongue. These devices are typically worn at night and can help to keep the airway open.

The Benefits of Seeing an Oral Surgeon for Sleep Apnea

There are many benefits to seeing an oral surgeon for sleep apnea. Oral surgeons are highly trained and experienced in treating sleep apnea. They can offer a variety of treatment options, including surgery and restoration dentistry. Oral surgeons can also work with your other healthcare providers to ensure that you receive the best possible care.

If you think you may have sleep apnea, don't hesitate to see an oral surgeon. They can help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need to improve your sleep and your overall health.

Board certified in Oral & Maxillofacial surgery

The surgical specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery requires up to six additional years of hospital based surgical and anesthesia training beyond dental school.

Contact Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center Today!

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1133 E. Stanley Blvd. #215 • Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: 925-290-7727 Fax: 925-294-8800
Email: info@pacificofs.com

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Phone: 209-835-4600 • Fax: 209-835-8833
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Dental Blog | Livermore & Tracy CA | Michael Beckley DDS
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Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center, 1133 E Stanley Blvd #215, Livermore, CA 94550 - 925-290-7727 - pacificofs.com - 4/17/2025 - Related Phrases: oral surgeon Livermore -