Airway Management

Did you know that an orthodontist can also play an integral role in the management of your airway? At Zitterkopf | Gaworski Orthodontics & Falcon Orthodontics, many people visit us because they have issues breathing. One of the most common reasons you might have difficulty breathing, particularly when you sleep at night, is obstructive sleep apnea. We provide comprehensive orthodontic care in Colorado Springs and Falcon, and it would be our pleasure to assist you.

Learn more about the treatment process below, and reach out to us to make an appointment.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, there is an obstruction that makes it difficult for you to breathe when you go to sleep at night. When you lay down, something compresses the airway, which hinders breathing. For example, there may be extra tissue pressing on your trachea, making it difficult for you to breathe evenly.

When you have difficulty breathing at night, your brain senses a drop in your oxygen levels. It will send a signal to your body, waking you up. As a result, you may wake up several times in the middle of the night, making it difficult to get the sleep you need. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Several common symptoms accompany obstructive sleep apnea. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• You may wake up in the middle of the night gasping for air.
• You may be chronically tired during the day because you don’t get enough sleep at night.
• You may wake up in the morning with headaches because your brain has had low oxygen levels for the entire evening.
• You may snore a lot at night, and your partner may have difficulty sleeping.

If you are experiencing symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, an orthodontist may be able to help you.

How Can an Orthodontist Help Me?

If you want to make it easier to breathe, an orthodontist may be able to help you. At Matt Gaworski Orthodontics and Falcon Ortho, we can discuss different appliances that can help you keep your airway open. We can take images and impressions, customizing the appliance to meet your needs. Then, before you go to sleep at night, you can pop in the appliance and keep your airway open. When you have an easier time breathing at night, you will get a good night’s rest. This can make it easier for you to wake up feeling rested in the morning. 

Call Matt Gaworski Orthodontics and Falcon Ortho To Make an Appointment

At Zitterkopf | Gaworski Orthodontics & Falcon Orthodontics, we are always available to assist you. Our goal is to work with you closely, addressing all of your orthodontic needs. If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, it would be our pleasure to assist you. We can make it easier for you to breathe at night, making you feel well rested in the morning. Contact us today to speak to our team, and make an appointment with our office!