Snoring / Sleep Apnea Appliances
SNORING/ SLEEP APNEA APPLIANCES
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing is briefly interrupted during sleep. This pause could last a minimum of ten seconds. There are several treatment options available for this condition including the potential use of a dental appliance. Other suggestions might include:
⦁ Lose weight
⦁ Avoid smoking tobacco
⦁ Avoid drinking alcohol
⦁ Exercise regularly
If these methods don’t decrease sleep apnea or snoring, then your doctor/dentist may recommend other treatments.
TREATMENTS FOR SLEEP APNEA
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
CPAP is the most typical treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It blows air with continuous pressure down your throat at night to keep your airways open while sleeping. This treatment is done using a CPAP machine which is small and lightweight, comfortable for traveling.
Mouth devices
Oral appliances are designed to keep your throat open and to control sleep apnea. These appliances are only used at night. These devices include:
⦁ Mandibular advancement device: This device brings your lower jaw forward. It looks similar to a sports mouth guard.
⦁ Tongue retaining device: This device is a splint that holds the tongue in a different position to keep the airway open.
It is important to understand that these appliances may cause changes in your bite, pain, movement of teeth, etc. in some patients.
Sleep apnea implants
Involves the insertion of a pacemaker system that stimulates muscles to keep airways open so you’ll be able to breathe during sleep.
Surgery
Surgery can increase the size of your airway, thus reducing episodes of sleep apnea.
⦁ Nasal surgery
⦁ Upper airway surgery
⦁ Maxillomandibular advancement
⦁ Tracheostomy
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