Sleep Apnea
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue relaxes 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 conjunction with other specialists who help treat this disorder.
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 usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
In more complex and severe cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is performed by the oral and maxillofacial surgeon and 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.
Big Sky Oral & Facial Surgery
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My wife was referred to Dr. Wallis after two local and excellent dentists decided that the care needed to resolve the issue was outside their scope. Within an hour Dr. Wallis decided on a plan of care that involved admission to the ER, a CT scan and surgery to resolve a large and aggressive abscess. Having a good bedside manner is one thing, but having the competence to deliver a solution and skill to remove the two affected teeth and drain the abscess is far more important. Dr. Wallis has both. All of this happened within 5 hours from start to finish. The follow up care has been excellent. My wife and I are extremely grateful.
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These guys are professional and made a surgery go well that is considered difficult for people over 25 years of age. I'm 44 and had no issues, minimal pain, and a lot of support.
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Thank you so much to Dr. Wallis and everyone on his team for all the genuine care and kindness put into every appointment and my entire jaw surgery. I highly recommend Big Sky Oral & Facial Surgery.
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Dr. Wallis is simply the best. I have had Botox a few other times with varied results, but it was a night a day experience with Dr. Wallis. His unique skill set and expertise delivered the best results with the easiest application. He listened to me and made it look so natural and even. My husband even comments how much he likes it. Extremely happy. Couldn’t go anywhere else. Thank you, Big Sky Oral & Facial!
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Big Sky Oral and Facial was wonderful. As a young college student with no family close by, my wisdom teeth surgery felt a little scary. However, all the staff in this office was so kind, welcoming, and reassuring. I felt safe and comfortable the entire time I was in the office, and left with minimal (reasonable) pain. They did an amazing job and I'm so thankful I ended up at their office for my procedure!
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I thank Dr Wallis for caring I have lived with extreme pain in my mouth for the past couple of years . Dr Wallis is going to take care of it all for me. He deserves a medal for the care he gives his community!!!
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Thank you for the wonderful experience you all did a great job of easing my daughters nerves. She also had a short recovery with little pain. We will definitely be back for our next daughter.
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