Sleep Apnea Evaluation in Brentwood, CA

At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we recognize that a good night’s sleep is a pillar of health. However, for many in Brentwood, nights are interrupted by gasping, snoring, and dangerous pauses in breathing. These are the hallmarks of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a serious medical condition where the airway collapses during sleep.

While sleep apnea is a medical disorder, Dr. Thuc Luu and our dental team play a critical role in its identification and treatment. As experts in oral anatomy, we are often the first to notice the physical signs of airway obstruction. We provide comprehensive screenings and work alongside sleep physicians to offer comfortable, CPAP-free alternatives for a more restful life.

Why Your Dentist Screens for Sleep Apnea

Many patients are surprised that their dentist is interested in their sleep habits. Because we examine your mouth and throat every six months, we are uniquely positioned to spot “anatomical red flags” that a primary care doctor might miss.

Indicators We Look For:

• Scalloped Tongue: Ridges on the sides of the tongue caused by the tongue pushing against the teeth to keep the airway open.
• Narrow Airway (Mallampati Score): A high-arched palate or enlarged tonsils that restrict airflow.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Research shows a strong link between grinding and OSA; the body often clenches the jaw to prevent the airway from collapsing.
• Bony Growths (Tori): Excess bone in the lower jaw can displace the tongue backward into the throat.
• Eroded Enamel: Frequent acid reflux (GERD), often caused by the “vacuum” effect of sleep apnea, can wear down tooth enamel.

Our Sleep Apnea Evaluation Process

Our evaluation is designed to be a bridge between dental expertise and medical diagnosis.

1. Risk Assessment & Questionnaires

We begin with validated screening tools like the STOP-Bang Questionnaire or the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. These assessments help us quantify your daytime fatigue, snoring volume, and witnessed breathing pauses.

2. Clinical Airway Exam

Dr. Luu performs a detailed examination of your soft tissues. We assess the size of your tongue, the position of your soft palate, and the flexibility of your jaw. We also utilize our 3D CBCT Imaging to measure the actual volume of your upper airway in three dimensions.

3. Physician Collaboration & Sleep Studies

It is important to note that while dentists screen for OSA, a formal diagnosis must come from a board-certified sleep physician.

• Home Sleep Tests (HST): For many patients, we can facilitate a Home Sleep Test, allowing you to be monitored in the comfort of your own bed in Brentwood.
• Referral Network: We work closely with local East Bay sleep specialists to interpret your results and determine the severity of your apnea (Mild, Moderate, or Severe).

Treatment: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea—or those who are “CPAP intolerant”—we offer Oral Appliance Therapy. This is a custom-fit, adjustable device worn only during sleep.

How it Works: Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD)

A MAD looks similar to a sports mouthguard but is far more sophisticated. It gently shifts the lower jaw (mandible) and tongue forward. This tension keeps the soft tissues at the back of the throat from collapsing, ensuring a clear and open airway all night long.

• Custom vs. “Boil-and-Bite”: Unlike over-the-counter guards, our devices are custom-titratable, meaning they can be adjusted in tiny increments to find the exact “sweet spot” for your breathing.
• Trusted Resource: Learn about the effectiveness of OAT from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM).

The Benefits of a Dental Solution

Many patients find CPAP machines to be noisy, bulky, or restrictive. Our custom oral appliances offer a streamlined alternative:

• Silent & Discreet: No hoses, masks, or humming machines.
• Travel-Friendly: Fits in your pocket and requires no electricity.
• High Compliance: Because they are comfortable, patients are much more likely to wear them every single night.
• Health Outcomes: Successful treatment reduces your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Contact Fairview Dental Brentwood today at (925) 240-7253 to schedule your comprehensive Sleep Apnea evaluation.