Many people do not consider snoring to be something serious, but loud snoring accompanied by daytime fatigue can be an indicator of sleep apnea. This is a common and serious disorder in which breathing stops and starts repeatedly as you sleep. If you have sleep apnea, you are likely not aware of these short breathing pauses that occur many times at night. In some cases, they even occur hundreds of times and can jolt you out of your natural sleep rhythm. You may end up feeling not as mentally sharp, energetic or productive during the day as you normally would.
It is always recommended for patients to seek treatment for sleep apnea. If left untreated, the disorder can lead to a myriad of health problems. These include stroke, heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression. Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for sleep apnea.
Oral appliance therapy has become a common treatment for snoring and sleep apnea. It involves the patient wearing a removable oral appliance in the mouth while sleeping. The devices are known to fit like an orthodontic retainer or a sports mouthguard. Oral appliances can prevent the airway from collapsing by either holding the tongue or supporting someone’s jaw in a forward position. It is crucial for a patient to be custom-fitted for an oral appliance for it to be effective.
There are many different types of oral appliances that can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The devices may differ when it comes to appearance. The most common oral devices are the tongue retaining device and the mandibular advancement device. These devices all help to open the airway. Over-the-counter devices are not ideal for the treatment of OSA or snoring.
Oral appliance therapy can help improve the symptoms of OSA. These include moodiness, concentration issues and daytime sleepiness. The devices can also eliminate or reduce snoring. Custom-made oral appliances have become an increasingly popular treatment option for sleep apnea. The devices offer many advantages over breathing devices. They are quieter and more comfortable. It is also easier to take along oral appliances when traveling and the devices are easy to use.
Oral appliances can help to open the airway by bringing the lower jaw or a person’s tongue forward during sleep. Patients prefer them because these devices are portable, small, quiet and easy to use. Oral appliance therapy is usually beneficial for patients with less severe sleep apnea. Since there are a variety of devices available, it may take some experimentation to find the one that is ideal for you.
It is crucial to get fitted by a dentist who has training in treating sleep apnea. You should also see the dentist on a regular basis. This will allow your dentist to monitor any problems and to occasionally adjust the mouthpiece. Talk to your dentist to find out more about how oral appliance therapy can help you.
Request an appointment here: https://artisandentalbellevue.com or call Artisan Dental at (425) 454-2005 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Google reviews.
Meet Dr. Syeda Bakhtawar Dr. Syeda is a compassionate and highly experienced dentist at Artisan Dental Bellevue, known for delivering personalized dental care with a gentle approach. With more than two decades of clinical experience, she combines advanced dental technology, precision techniques, and patient-focused treatment planning to help individuals achieve healthy, confident smiles. She is…
Scheduling an appointment with a general dentist is a strong step toward maintaining long-term oral health. If you have never visited a general dentist before or are looking for one in a new area, knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and facilitate a more positive overall experience. A general dentist can provide comprehensive…
A general dentist relies on digital X-rays as a critical diagnostic tool to evaluate oral health, detect issues early, and guide treatment decisions. These high-resolution images offer detailed insight into structures not visible during a routine visual exam, making them essential for both preventive and restorative care. Digital X-rays are safer, faster, and more comfortable…
There are many dental providers to choose from, and patients can save time by choosing one that meets current and future dental needs. A general dentist is a preferred choice for those looking to improve or maintain their oral health. On the other hand, cosmetic dentists can provide services that enhance how the smile looks.…
