Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that affects roughly 25% of males and almost 10% of women. OSA causes pauses in breathing, tiredness, and health hazards. Although positive airway pressure (PAP) is the most effective treatment, dental devices can be used in mild to moderate instances. Need a solution? Check out sleep appliances marion.
What is it used for?
Dental devices for sleep apnea adjust the jaw or tongue to expand the airway, although they can be painful and have a 50% success rate. Benefits differ, and mild instances may not see any improvement. These devices are advised for mild to moderate OSA or severe cases where PAP cannot be tolerated.
Mandibular advancement devices:
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are molded hard plastic devices that are worn over the upper and lower teeth and have adjustable metal hinges and screws to push the jaw forward. Custom versions are available, but to avoid costly, uncertified solutions, make sure your dentist is certified by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. If used to treat snoring, such devices may not be covered by insurance.
SnoreRx mouthguards:
SnoreRx mouthguards adjust the lower jaw to prevent snoring. SnoreRx, which costs less than $100, is fitted using a “boil and bite” procedure, in which the device is softened in boiling water and then molded to your teeth.
Tongue-retaining devices:
Tongue-retaining devices are soft plastic splints that are worn at night to keep your tongue forward. They do, however, frequently cause dry mouth and discomfort.
Consultation with a sleep apnea specialist:
Before getting into how sleep apnea dental appliances work, it’s critical to stress the need of seeking treatment. Quality sleep, like nutrition and exercise, is essential for general well-being, aiding in stress recovery, body and mind regeneration, and health optimization. Consultation with a sleep apnea specialist is crucial since untreated sleep apnea can have serious repercussions such as hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and reduced cognitive function, posing hazards such as accidents and crashes.
Final thoughts:
Consult your sleep apnea expert, who may send you to a dentist who specializes in such devices, if you want to have an oral appliance for sleep apnea. Digital impressions are taken at the dentist’s office following examination and qualification, ensuring exact fitting. In a lab, a custom-designed device is developed, including fittings and tweaks for optimal performance. Taking care of sleep apnea is critical not only for personal health but also for public safety, as it improves general well-being and lifespan.
