Patients Using Dental Appliances For Sleep Apnea Can Experience Relief

By Ines Brennan


Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person's breathing becomes very shallow or ceases altogether for several seconds periodically during sleep. The use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)machine is effective for some, but is not the only alternative. Dental appliances for sleep apnea can also help correct this condition and encourage normal breathing patterns in patients.

Different types of appliances exist for this purpose which work in various ways but achieve the same results. There are some which keep the tongue in a forward position, while others reposition the lower jaw. It is easy to come by these appliances, as there are even online sites where they can be bought, however it is recommended to instead consult a dentist or orthodontist who provides this type of treatment. Patients will be fitted for custom-made appliances that offer more comfort and effectiveness.

A dental healthcare provider will make plaster molds of the patient's teeth. These impressions will be used to craft a device which takes into account the unique size and shape of the mouth. Ultimately a custom-made appliance will offer a higher level of effectiveness and more comfort.

The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.

Anti-apnea appliances are mostly worn much like a retainer. It is common for them to feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but as the wearer becomes accustomed to it, this typically fades. If there is notable jaw pain, specifically in the temporomandibular joint, this needs to be evaluated by the dentist and should be monitored closely to avoid a long-term problem. Those with TMJ may need to consider a different route of treatment.

During the course of the treatment period, the patient's lower jaw will gradually move forward more. This is usually most noticeable once about six months of treatment have passed. This is part of the process and it lends itself to the safety and effectiveness of the appliance.

Patients will also be referred to undergo a sleep study once several weeks of treatment have passed. It's best if this is done at the same facility where the initial evaluation was carried out. It is easier this way to see if the device is helping the patient, by comparing results to the original study.

Dental appliances for sleep apnea can be quite effective and are a good option for patients who do not wish to rely on a CPAP machine each night. It's always a good idea to consult a dental professional when seeking this kind of treatment, in order to get the most suitable device for the patient. In some cases, changes in treatment are needed for a better outcome.




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