Sleep Apnea
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.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
The first step in treatment for sleep apnea 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.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
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.
Yorktown Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Amazing experience overall. Got all four impacted wisdom teeth out and was in feeling amazing the next day. Staff and doctor were very reassuring and answered any pre op questions i had, leaving me to feel more comfortable!
- Kayla R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I saw Dr. Vakkas for the first time for a tooth extraction. He was amazing. I did not have any pain the next day. The office staff was very kind. I was very impressed when the doctor called me at home after my surgery to see how I was doing. I have already recommended him to several co-workers.
- Patricia P
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I have been to doctor Vakkas several times for tooth implants. The doctor is extremely knowledgeable and explains everything carefully. The office is extremely professional and always follows up and has records ready when I need them. They are extremely friendly. I highly recommend this office.
- Robin F
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The office got me in within a few hours for an extraction of an infected tooth. The office staff is very attentive and caring. Dr Vakkos did an amazing job of extracting the tooth pain free. I have never had a tooth pulled and not had pain the next day. Dr Vakkos called a few hours after extraction to make sure I was doing OK. I would recommend this practice to everyone.
- Barbara A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have used another area oral surgeon for years even recently I felt rushed there and had sloppy work done . This was a totally different experience the staff was warm and friendly and Dr Vakkas was an amazing Dr. He takes the time to speak to you and listens to all your concerns . I had major procedures done removal of bone on my gum line and removal of implants to help me to wear dentures with out all my issues . I will go to him always as will my family and anyone who asks for a referral . His work is neat his sutures are strong !!! I felt confident with him from consultation, assistance from staff, and to the surgury itself
- Kelly B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My daughter and son had their wisdom teeth removed by Dr Vakkas both with minimal post-op issues.Speedy recovery and healing time with minimal discomfort.- Amazingly my son had no pain following his surgery- Dr Vakkas is an exceptional oral surgeon with an outstanding professional mannerism- Any post op questions were answered right away and follow-up call to check on patient makes all the difference. I would highly recommend Dr Vakkas. His staff is great too- so helpful and pleasant 🙂
- Christina M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had several teeth extracted and implants placed. Dr Vakkas and his staff are amazing!!
- Tina V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Vakkas pulled my wisdom teeth out and called me after my procedure to see how I was feeling. Policy or not that was a great way of showing he cared. In general he is an incredibly nice person. I have recently gone back to him for another issue and will continue going to him and recommending him to family and friends !
- Brittney B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Got 2 wisdom teeth pulled today! Glad to know that amazing dental offices are nearby. Everyone was kind, professional and put me at ease right away. I highly recommend Dr. Vakkas and his team.
- Dina G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Vakkas and his staff made me feel comfortable and at ease. I had 2 teeth extracted 1 of them being a wisdom tooth.
- Nicole D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My older son needed a tooth extraction a few years ago and we were very pleased then with the staff and procedure. This time, my younger son needed two teeth extracted and he is an anxious child. So even though the doctor discussed the procedure with us ahead of time, the day of the extraction, my son was nervous, teary, asking a lot of questions and wanted me by his side (not normally done). Dr. Vakkas and his staff worked it out so that I could be right outside the room and talk to my son while he had the procedure to help calm him and get him through it. The procedure was quick and efficient, (the anticipation is what was stressful for my son) and the staff was patient, kind, understanding and accommodating. I would recommend this office to anyone who needs oral surgery; they go above and beyond to make it the best experience possible for the patient. Professional and excellent in every way!
- Christine A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Procedure was quick and staff was friendly.
- Joseph K K
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Easy and mostly painless. No swelling!
- Saskia L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
These professionals made me feel at ease and they explained everything about the necessary dental extractions. They were excellent from the moment I walked in right through when I left the office.
- Janet S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent doctor and staff. Calm and professional demeanor. I have been in very good hands.
- Anonymous
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Doctor and staff were quite amazing
- Joseph giordano
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Professional, clean, happy with service
- Maryann A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Highly recommend this practice
- John D
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Great experience
- Gerarda R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very satisfied starting with the front desk-very professional service. The assistant and doctor extremely attentive and made us feel relaxed and comfortable for our procedure. I would highly recommend this office. Excellent experience.
- Alison R