Whether your household is losing sleep to your snoring or you’re tired of waking up feeling unrested, you’re not alone; sleep apnea is a common impediment of which many patients complain. Fortunately, there are solutions that help sufferers manage their condition, including custom dental devices. Though it’s hard to believe that something as simple as a dental appliance could provide relief, sleep apnea appliances are a common and trusted method of treatment.
Understanding your Diagnosis
To determine whether a sleep apnea appliance would alleviate your symptoms, you should first understand the distinction between the two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA).
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of the condition and occurs when the soft tissues surrounding your throat relax, blocking airways.
Central sleep apnea tends to be slightly more severe and occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing. It’s important to note that central sleep apnea cannot be improved with the use of a sleep apnea appliance; only those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea are suitable candidates.
How Oral Appliances Work
Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is one of the more comfortable and convenient treatment options for patients with sleep apnea. Similar to wearing an orthodontic retainer or night guard, the appliance is worn only when a patient goes to sleep. There are numerous types of oral appliances suitable for treating sleep apnea and the type recommended for you depends upon your unique circumstances.
Many patients question the effectiveness of sleep apnea appliances and wonder if they’re the right treatment option for their needs. Ultimately, many patients find continuous positive airway (CPAP) therapy to be unsustainable, and as such, compliance is low. If you’re a patient who has failed with CPAP therapy in the past or have yet to try any method of therapy, a sleep apnea appliance is a great option that could make all the difference.
Ask Our Dentists about Appliance Therapy for OSA!
To learn more about how these devices work and whether we can help you obtain a better night’s sleep, schedule a consultation with Dental Care Center today.