Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that leads to interrupted breathing during sleep due to a blocked airway, causing a person to stop breathing multiple times throughout the night. According to sleepapnea.org, an estimated 22 million people in the U.S. suffer from the condition, though a majority of them go undiagnosed. There are several treatments available, including surgery, continuous positive airway pressure machine, and dental appliances. For people with mild to moderate OSA, mouth devices provide substantial benefits.
Dental appliances are fitted to the user. They are effective in reducing the potential for sleep apnea by maintaining an open airway. There are two categories of mouth appliances:
This dental appliance is used more often than tongue retaining devices. A MAD is constructed to fit the lower and upper arches and snaps over the top of the teeth. There is a hinge that connects the two sections. Wearing this appliance keeps the airway open, maintaining normal breathing as it pushes the lower jaw and tongue forward a little.
A tongue retaining device may be suitable for those whose mouth or jaw structure makes it difficult to reposition the jaw. This device works similarly to a MAD, except that there is no component that slips over the teeth. Instead, the appliance uses the force of suction to keep the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from sinking back into the upper throat.
For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, dental appliances offer an effective alternative to surgery or CPAP machines. They are particularly useful for people who are back or stomach sleepers. There are several benefits to using mouth devices for preventing airway obstruction during sleep.
Using a dental appliance lowers the frequency of sleep interruptions and snoring, both of which diminish sleep quality. Individuals may find they get a better night’s sleep when wearing mouth devices. It is important to note, however, that devices need to be properly fitted to the individual user to be effective.
Oral devices are easy to use. The simple design means that there are not a lot of pieces to keep track of or connect. This increases the likelihood that people use them more consistently. It is also beneficial for those who are active sleepers, as these devices are not easily knocked off from tossing and turning during sleep.
Most people discover that their dental appliance is comfortable to wear. As such, consistency in use is improved. This also reduces the potential for adverse short- and long-term health effects from sleep apnea. Regular and consistent use leads to less irritability and daytime drowsiness as well as increased concentration.
Dental appliances are an effective option for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. If you have been diagnosed with OSA, consult with a sleep specialist and dentist to find out if they are the right choice for you.
Request an appointment here: https://artisandentalbellevue.com or call Artisan Dental at (425) 454-2005 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.
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