Types of Sleep Apnea


Sleep apnea occurs in three forms:
  • Obstructive sleep apnea is an airway blockage caused by a genetic abnormality such as excessive tissue in the back of the tongue, throat or nose.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea



Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea

  • Central sleep apnea results when the brain fails to send proper signals to muscles responsible for breathing.

Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea


Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea
  • Mixed sleep apnea (also called complex sleep apnea) is diagnosed when both central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea are present.

Complex Sleep Apnea


Mixed sleep apnea


Mixed Sleep Apnea

Complex Sleep Apnea

Your dentist may be able to correct obstructive sleep apnea by fitting you with a dental appliance that is worn during the night. If your sleep apnea is caused by the tongue resting on the airway, a tongue-retaining device can correct the problem.


Sleep apnea caused by the incorrect positioning of the jaw may be treated with a device inserted into the mouth or strapped around the head to adjust the jaw’s positioning. Dental devices worn inside the mouth to treat sleep apnea look like athletic mouth guards. They are removable and worn only at night.


Types of Sleep Apnea


Types of Sleep Apnea

If sleep apnea is caused by excess tissue growth on the tongue or in the back of the throat, the overgrowth may be surgically removed to resolve the blockage. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons and ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors are experienced in performing such operations. However, dental professionals trained in laser dentistry also may perform the procedure.




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