Sleep Apnea Duluth MN
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Snoring
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.
In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometic (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures are usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
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Dental Implant & Reconstructive Center
Patient Review By Shirley B
I went to Dr. Esquerra's office for a replacement of an upper and lower partial as well as some "reworking" of a series of upper front teeth. And when it was completed it ended up to be the smile I'd dreamed of. The staff were all extremely friendly and Dr. Esquerra was so supportive, so understanding, and so patient. It seemed as no nothing short of perfection was good enough for her when working on my teeth. And they were a challenge. But I appreciated every bit of effort she gave to me. However interruptions with the Mayo Clinic due to lasting effects from oral cancer and radiation have left a lot of other issues to be corrected at this point so I don't know at this time what will happen next. But I would highly recommend Dr. Esquerra and her staff.
- Shirley B
Patient Review By Ann S
Our experience at Dental Implant and Reconstructive Center was great! During an especially challenging dental situation for my son, Dr. Esguerra and her team were not only compassionate and understanding to the stress of our situation, but did an amazing job of communicating with us throughout the whole process. They always worked with us to find appointments that fit our schedule and worked hard to make sure that my son and I were happy with the results of each procedure. I would highly recommend Dr. Esguerra and her team. Thanks for giving my son his smile back!
- Ann S
Patient Review By Janine o
I was extremely satisfied with the service that I received from everyone at your office and will recommend you to anyone that needs dental care.
- Janine o
Patient Review By mary jo M
Our son is 34 years old. He needed a implant bridge in the front top. We are so pleased with Dr Esguerra. She was so kind and patient with our son. Her staff was so wonderful , friendly and helpful with Sean . He ended up having a beautiful smile. Thank you so much Dr Esguerra.
- mary jo M
Patient Review By Cheng-Khee C
Dr. Roxanna Esguerra is among the best professionals I have met in my life. During the entire processes of my dental work, she was courteous, thoughtful, integral, cautious, professional and perfectionistic. In my opinion, she has set up the high professional standards for others to follow. In addition, I admire and appreciate Dr. Esguerra’s dental and clerical assistants. They worked hard with dedication, enthusiasm and efficiency as a harmonious team to provide patients the best service! Overall, I have received the best dental work. My teeth look great, my bites are perfect and I can enjoy all my favorite foods. All these have changed my life! On the last day of my visit when my procedure was completed, I felt that I belong to the Dental Implant & Reconstructive Center family, and reluctant to leave!
- Cheng-Khee C
Patient Review By Lyle W
Dr. Esquerra is the very best. Dr. Esquerra is professional, kind ,and trustworthy. I have often said that the work her office has done for me is simply miraculous. Everyday I that I eat I give thanks for the great work that was done so I can eat every meal without pain. I will never forget the wonderful change in my life when I took my first bite with my new dentures. I know, that if I have any problems I will be given an appointment and the problem will be address perfectly. Thank you Dr. Esquerra and your kind and professional staff. I am proud to spread the good news about the quality of your work. Thank you again for your skills and kindness.
- Lyle W
Patient Review By Nan H
Outstanding personalized and professional care!
- Nan H
Patient Review By Robert C
Overly satisfied with the whole project. Done very proffesionally, amazing group.
- Robert C
Patient Review By Emily S
I cannot speak highly enough of Dr. Esguerra and her staff. I had despaired of finding someone who could craft a bite plate/night guard to help ease my jaw and tooth pain, but Dr. Esguerra is an absolute god-send. Not only do I have the most fabulous and comfortable device, I've now gained access to excellent care. I could not be any happier with my experience.
- Emily S
Patient Review By Julie W
Dr E was so precise and accurate. She gave me my smile back. The office staff and medical assistant are so professional. I highly recommend this team.
- Julie W
Patient Review By Izzy N
Very satisfied with service. Doctor and staff were very welcoming and pleasant. As a young patient with a disability I was treated with respect and caring. They went above and beyond to help me.
- Izzy N
Patient Review By Cindy F
Appreciated the meticulous attention to every detail. I'm very pleased with the results.
- Cindy F
Patient Review By Susannah F
This was by far the best dental experience I've ever had! Anyone would be thrilled with the results here. My smile is awesome now!,
- Susannah F
Patient Review By Darell B
So far so good. Hopefully everything will hold well. Very satisfied
- Darell B
Patient Review By Patti B
Very very satisfied
- Patti B
Patient Review By Bev L
I feel pretty happy. I am going to have my son come here now instead of waiting until the end of the road. I wish I would have had a better understanding of the timeframes for my treatment. It took one year.
- Bev L
Patient Review By Christopher H
Great courteous people
- Christopher H
Patient Review By Lyle W
I lived in constant pain eating until I met the folks at the Dental Implant & Reconstructive Center in Duluth MN. Following a horrific accident and having my face shattered and a jaw broken I had pain and difficulty eating every meal. Because of their professional staff's ability to preform miracles I now have a great smile and the ability to eat and taste food pain free. I refer to them as miracle workers and they have proven it to me. I definitely refer Dental Implant &* Reconstructive because they have proved to me to be the very best.
- Lyle W
Patient Review By Chris T
Very happy with the results, all procedures quick and pain free
- Chris T
Patient Review By Ed C
This is a highly efficient office across the board. Everything was discussed in great detail throughout the entire process. One does not feel rushed. And there is a very healthy interplay of levity and seriousness to lessen the stress. This is how dental (and medical) practice should be conducted.
- Ed C