Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder that causes snoring and breathing pauses during sleep. These breathing pauses may occur 30 times or more an hour. As a result, the quality of sleep suffers, making patients tired during the day. On top of that, life partners are often suffering too, as loud and persistent snoring can keep him or her awake and take a toll on his or her well-being.
The most obvious sign of obstructive sleep apnea is chronic, loud, and ongoing snoring. There is usually, too, persistent sleepiness during the day, including while at work or driving. This may cause the sufferer to doze off during periods of inactivity. Other symptoms include morning headaches, waking frequently throughout night, difficulty concentrating and remembering, insomnia, psychological problems such as depression or mood changes, and sore throat or dry mouth upon waking.
Fragmented sleep such as that induced by obstructive sleep apnea is the most common cause of daytime sleepiness and issues related to sleep deprivation, including problems with memory, reaction time, and concentration. OSA may also lead to serious illnesses due to its reduction of oxygen levels. This combination of disturbed sleep and oxygen starvation may contribute to ailments including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, sexual dysfunction, and depression, plus a significantly higher risk of accidents, including those in the workplace and while driving.
With normal breathing, which supports the restorative sleep that is so important to human health and well-being, air flows freely through the upper airway. There is no obstruction to hinder breathing.
OAT (Oral Appliance Therapy) is a custom-designed oral appliance prescribed by your dentist to treat snoring or mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It is also recommended for patients with more severe OSA who are unable or unwilling to tolerate CPAP therapy and/or surgery. The two-piece appliance is designed to prevent apneas by keeping the upper airway open.
Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I eaMatthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPhersonDana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. TJohn C.
Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.
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Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.
538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407
Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm