SLEEP APNEA

DENTAL APPLIANCE

Sleep apnea is considered a serious sleep disorder in which someone’s breathing stops and starts again repeatedly during sleep. With obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles surrounding the tongue and throat relax in such a way during sleep that results in the tissue blocking airflow to the lungs. One treatment option for patients affected by this condition is a sleep apnea dental appliance.

Our dentists can provide information about these dental appliances as a method of treatment for your sleep apnea and help you through the process of being fitted for a device. NorthPark Family Dentistry offers assistance with a sleep apnea dental appliance..

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS A SLEEP APNEA DENTAL APPLIANCE?

A sleep apnea dental appliance is a mouth device used to treat sleep disorders. The most common dental appliance used for this treatment is the mandibular advancement device (MAD). This device appears similar to a mouth guard used in athletics. Patients are fitted with the device over the upper and lower dental arches, which are attached to metal hinges. These hinges allow the lower jaw to be eased forward as a means of reducing the risks associated with sleep apnea.

Occasionally, patients may experience some oral pain or changes in their bite alignment. Our dentists can potentially address these problems through adjustments or modifications to the device.

BENEFITS OF A SLEEP APNEA DENTAL APPLIANCE

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, dental devices provide many benefits. Some of these benefits include:

Improved quality of sleep
Reduced frequency/loudness of snoring
Regular use compared to other sleep apnea aids
Long-term use

It’s essential for those with a sleep apnea dental device to schedule periodic check-ups with our dentists to assess the effectiveness of the appliance and whether any adjustment or replacement is required. The effects of sleep apnea can be serious in terms of compromised breathing. Therefore, proper use and maintenance of your sleep apnea dental appliance are vital for effective treatment.

If you or a family member suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, it’s time to visit NorthPark Family Dentistry for more information about a sleep apnea dental appliance.