Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a disorder characterized by short pauses in breathing while sleeping. The problem can be life-threatening if not treated in time.
Sleep Apnea is a disorder that is quite hard to identify. Snoring is one of the most common signs indicating the occurrence of sleep apnea, but snoring does not signal the presence of obstructive sleep apnea all the time. Look out for the following symptoms:
Oral appliance therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive option for treating obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. It is similar to an orthodontic retainer or a dental mouth guard and needs to be worn while sleeping. The appliance works by helping the airway stay open by supporting the jaw in a forward direction.
Oral appliances are custom made in a dental lab using impressions of your mouth and teeth. Once your oral appliance is ready, we will make any needed adjustments to ensure a snug fit for maximum effectiveness and comfort. We will also give you instructions on cleaning and maintaining the appliance. For maximum effectiveness, your oral appliance may need adjustments from time to time. We will examine your oral appliance during follow up visits or during your regular dental exam and ensure that it fits properly.
Oral appliance therapy is a popular treatment for sleep apnea because of several reasons. One of these is that it significantly reduces mild to moderate occurrences of sleep apnea and is particularly useful for people who sleep on their stomach or back. It is highly helpful in improving a person’s sleep patterns and in reducing the frequency and loudness of snoring.
Our team of dental professionals is ready to help with any questions that you may have. For more information on our general dentistry services, give our office a call today at (918) 215-4425.
