Sleep apnoea is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing interruptions in breathing during sleep. If left untreated, sleep apnoea can lead to serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and daytime fatigue. One of the most effective ways to manage and prevent sleep apnoea is through airway management—a key focus for healthcare providers, including the team at Lara Smile Group, your trusted dentist in Geelong.

Understanding Sleep Apnoea and Its Risks

Sleep apnoea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, causing a temporary blockage of the airway. This obstruction leads to brief periods of breathing cessation, often lasting 10–30 seconds. These interruptions can occur multiple times throughout the night, leading to poor sleep quality and disrupted rest. The two most common types are:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): The most prevalent form, caused by a physical blockage of the upper airway.
  • Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA): A less common type, caused by the brain failing to signal the muscles that control breathing.

Common signs of sleep apnoea include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and irritability. If left untreated, sleep apnoea can significantly impact your daily life and increase the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease or type 2 diabetes.

How Airway Management Helps

Airway management is a crucial part of preventing and managing sleep apnoea. It focuses on keeping the airway open during sleep, reducing the risk of blockages that cause breathing interruptions. There are several ways airway management can be approached:

1. Positional Therapy

For some individuals, sleep apnoea is more severe when sleeping on their back. Sleeping on the side can help prevent airway collapse and reduce snoring. Positional therapy devices—such as special pillows or wearables that encourage side sleeping—can be a simple yet effective solution for mild cases.

2. Oral Appliances

An oral appliance, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD), is a custom-fitted mouthpiece that repositions the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. These devices are particularly effective for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea and are often preferred by those who cannot tolerate CPAP machines.

3. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

For moderate to severe cases of sleep apnoea, a CPAP machine is often recommended. This device delivers a continuous stream of air through a mask, preventing the airway from collapsing during sleep. While CPAP therapy is highly effective, some individuals may find it challenging to adjust to wearing the mask.

4. Surgical Interventions

When conservative approaches don’t provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. Surgical options can include removing excess tissue from the throat, repositioning the jaw, or correcting structural issues in the nose that contribute to airway obstruction.

The Role of Lara Smile Group in Airway Management

At Lara Smile Group, your local dentist in Geelong, we are committed to helping patients improve their sleep quality and overall health by addressing airway issues. Our team offers personalised treatment plans, including custom oral appliances, to manage sleep apnoea and prevent its progression.

We take a comprehensive approach, working closely with each patient to identify the best course of action based on their unique symptoms and lifestyle. Whether you’re experiencing the signs of sleep apnoea or have already been diagnosed, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Better Sleep Starts with the Right Support

Sleep apnoea can have a significant impact on your health, mood, and daily performance. That’s why early detection and effective airway management are key. By addressing airway obstructions through the right treatment approach—whether it’s positional therapy, oral appliances, CPAP, or surgical options—you can experience better sleep, improved energy, and reduced risk of serious health complications.

If you’re struggling with sleep apnoea or suspect you may be showing signs of sleep apnoea, contact Lara Smile Group, your experienced dentist in Geelong, for a consultation. We’re here to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and live healthier.