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Sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts normal breathing patterns during sleep, can lead to critical health risks. Addressing this concern isn’t just about improving your nightly rest—it’s about enhancing your overall wellbeing. Kelley Mingus, a leading dental expert in Bend, Oregon, introduces a holistic approach to combating sleep apnea, focusing not just on symptoms but on the entire picture of your health. His targeted methods go beyond traditional treatment, providing patients with a viable and effective alternative.
The Sleep Apnea Dilemma
Recognizing sleep apnea can be tricky. The primary symptom—interrupted breathing during sleep—is usually observed by a partner rather than the individual affected. These pauses can last from a few seconds up to a minute, occurring up to 30 times or more per hour. Other signs include excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and chronic snoring.
But why does this matter? The consequences of sleep apnea extend beyond mere discomfort; they have significant implications for your health. Hypertension, heart problems, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and liver problems are some conditions associated with sleep apnea. It also affects mental and emotional health, leading to issues like depression and anxiety.
For years, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been the cornerstone of sleep apnea treatment. It works by delivering constant and steady air pressure through a mask. However, not all patients can tolerate a CPAP machine.
Enter Holistic Dentistry
Kelley Mingus offers a refreshing alternative. As a practicing dentist and an advocate for holistic health, Dr. Mingus understands the intersection between dental health and our overall wellness. Here’s his two-step approach:
Custom Mouth Appliances
As a first step, Dr. Mingus designs custom-made mouth appliances, also known as orthotics. These are for patients looking for an immediate but temporary solution. The orthotics help to keep the airway open during sleep, thus eliminating the causes of sleep apnea.
Facial Growth Treatment
Equally crucial is his innovative Facial Growth treatment. This procedure is not a mere band-aid fix. Instead, it targets the root cause of the problem—underdeveloped jaws. This permanent solution promotes the natural growth of the jaw and corrects the development of airways.
Shifting the Paradigm
Dr. Mingus’s approach signifies a shift from traditional to a more comprehensive method of treatment. Let’s look at some of the benefits of this unique approach:
* Cost-Effective: These treatments are often covered by medical insurance, making them an affordable long-term solution.
* Comfort: Most patients find wearing a custom-fit oral appliance more comfortable than a CPAP mask.
* Natural and Non-Invasive: Dr. Mingus’s Facial Growth treatment leverages the body’s natural ability to grow and adapt, offering a non-invasive solution to a life-altering condition.
* Comprehensive Solutions: The ultimate goal is not just to alleviate symptoms but to improve overall health and quality of life.
In overview, Dr. Kelley Mingus and his team are deeply committed to their patients’ health and wellbeing. Their holistic approach to combating sleep apnea is not just a testament to this commitment, but a beacon for those seeking a sustainable, effective solution to tackle this widespread condition.