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Sleep Disordered Breathing

Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders (SRBD) negatively affect breathing during sleep. The most common SRBD are Snoring, Upper Airway Restriction Syndrome (UARS), and Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Snoring occurs while sleeping when the muscles of the airway relax causing the soft tissue to vibrate rapidly. Upper Airway Restriction occurs with partial obstruction of the airway causing a decrease in oxygen or arousal. This causes what is known as a Respiratory Effort Related Arousal (RERA) and prevents restful sleep. OSA occurs when the airway completely collapses, intermittently blocking airflow to the lungs. Specially trained qualified dentists, like Dr. Olson, are able to identify oral signs of an underlying SRBD. Dr. Olson has completed the Mastery Continuum Program through the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) along with additional training with renowned Spear Education and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Your airway health is important to us and will be discussed during your visit. We provide Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), a proven, effective, non-surgical treatment for snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea. OAT may also be used in conjunction with CPAP therapy, helping to increase its effectiveness. We will work closely with your medical provider to determine if OAT may benefit you.

Signs & Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea include:

  • Loud Snoring
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Waking up feeling exhausted from a normal night of sleep
  • Morning Headache
  • Depression or irritability
  • Breathing cessation during sleep
  • Gasps, choking, or gurgling sounds while snoring
  • Hypertension and cardiovascular disease
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Compromised immune system
  • Learning and memory problems

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Dr. Evan Olson, D. ABDSM, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist. He completed his degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Montana State University in Bozeman and then attended The University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Dr. Olson then practiced in a Community Health setting for five years treating all types of dental emergencies. He then ran a private practice in Central Oregon for seven years before moving back to Montana to take over Alpine Family Dental.

Dr. Olson was recently named a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which signifies extensive training and knowledge in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring. He is a Fellow of The Implant Pathway Surgical Program, a Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, and a Mentor for the CEREC Doctors training program. He has completed significant continuing education in many areas of dentistry including with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program, training on dental implants at Implant Pathway, Misch Institute, and Pikos Institute, an internship on root canals at the University of Iowa, cosmetic dentistry courses at CDOCS and Spear Education, and further studies on infant frenectomy and CAD/CAM techniques.

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Dr. Autumn Chapman received her degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She worked alongside her grandfather, Dr. Gerald Olson, in Havre, MT, before moving to Flathead Valley. Dr Chapman has been able to focus on education and training in facial esthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She has Training in orthodontics using suresmile clear aligners with CDOCs in Scottsdale and Training in Botox and filler with the american academy of facial esthetics.

Dr. Greg Eller obtained his degree in Aeronautical Maintenance and spent six years as a Skydiving Instructor. He then attended the University of Oregon where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Pre-Medicine and the Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School. He is a member of the American Dental Association and Montana Dental Association and has IV moderate sedation training. After 14 years at Alpine Family Dental, Dr. Eller has now transitioned out of full-time practice.

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