Oral Appliance Therapy For Sleep Apnea
There have been numerous studies on the importance of sleep for performing our daily functions. Getting enough sleep not only helps us recharge our bodies for the day ahead, but has also been linked to immune function, metabolism, memory function, and learning processes.
But what if your lack of sleep isn’t due to not giving yourself enough hours to rest? Over 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, a sleep disorder where the upper airways become blocked during sleep. Sleep apnea can cause either reduced air flow or can completely stop airflow depending on the severity of the condition.
Speaking with your doctor is always the first step towards diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. What may come as a surprise to some people, however, would be the role that your dentist can play in helping you treat sleep apnea!
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea isn’t simply a condition that can make you drowsy. There are serious risks associated with untreated sleep apnea including high blood pressure, chronic heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and stroke. The persistent drowsiness associated with sleep apnea also imposes the risk of traffic accidents or on the job accidents.
That’s why it’s important to understand the symptoms of sleep apnea and reach out if you feel that you have any. Some common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Loud snoring
- Dry mouth
- Morning headaches
- Insomnia
If you have any of the above symptoms, your doctor may schedule a sleep study to formally diagnose you with sleep apnea and determine the best treatment for you.
Where Your Dentist Fits Into Your Sleep Apnea Treatment
There are several treatment options for sleep apnea, with the most common method being the use of CPAP therapy. CPAP therapy is generally accepted as the best method for treating severe sleep apnea. However, there are other options for less severe cases of sleep apnea that you and your sleep team can explore.
One option for treating sleep apnea is the use of oral appliance therapy. This method involves wearing a removable oral piece in your mouth, much like a mouth guard. An oral appliance prevents your airways from collapsing by either holding your tongue back or supporting your jaw in a forward position. Oral appliances are custom made by your dentist and are a great method to consider if you have less severe sleep apnea.
What to Expect at Your Dental Appointment for Oral Appliance Therapy
When you visit your doctor about getting your custom oral appliance created, the process is simple and easy. Your dentist will create a mold of your teeth using digital or physical impressions of your teeth. The model is then sent out to a dental lab where your custom oral appliance is made.
When your oral appliance is ready, your dentist will have you return for a fitting. Any necessary adjustments can be made by your dentist to ensure the comfort and effectiveness of your oral appliance!
Oral appliances are a simple solution that may help save your life one day by keeping your airways open. If you been diagnosed with sleep apnea or have any symptoms of sleep apnea, talk with your doctor and give us a call at 586-573-7700 to have your oral appliance created!