Benefits of an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea

If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), your doctor may give you the option of picking oral appliance therapy to treat it. Oral appliances have become more popular because they are effective in treating sleep apnea and snoring. Worn only when a person is sleeping, a dental device fits in the mouth like an orthodontic retainer or a sports mouthguard. It helps to keep the airway open during sleep.

Benefits of oral appliance therapy

Oral appliances that are fit by qualified dentists are common treatment options for moderate or mild OSA. These devices are usually custom-made and come in a variety of designs. A dental device can keep the airway open, which helps prevent it from collapsing and blocking normal airflow during breathing. Oral appliances are preferred by many patients because of the numerous advantages the devices offer over-breathing devices and many other treatment options.

Lifestyle change

Oral appliances are effective in treating OSA as well as snoring. This treatment option can improve the symptoms of sleep apnea including moodiness, concentration issues and daytime sleepiness. Treating the condition can lead to a better life for a patient. Most times, because of treatment, patients sleep better, are more energetic and feel sharper. A patient’s quality of life will improve significantly especially if a person continues using the device each night.

Alternative treatment for CPAP

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a common treatment option for sleep apnea. CPAP can help ease snoring, relieve daytime sleepiness and improve sleep quality. However, even though CPAP benefits many patients, some people cannot tolerate the treatment. Sometimes, it may even not work. Oral appliance therapy is an ideal option for patients who cannot tolerate or have not benefitted from CPAP.

Comfort

Many patients like custom-made oral appliances because the devices are comfortable to wear. These dental devices are custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth and lightweight materials are used to make them. Dentists also require patients to see them regularly to ensure the optimal fit of the devices. The device will be adjusted over some weeks to help ensure maximum comfort and enhance its effectiveness.

Convenience

Oral appliances are portable and quiet. These are some of the factors that make them convenient for travel. Since dental devices do not require electricity, oral appliances effectively work for people who want a non-generator option. Patients also like them because they are easy to wear and take care of.

Takeaway

Oral appliance therapy is an approved treatment option for moderate or mild OSA. Some people with sleep apnea prefer oral appliances because the devices tend to be more comfortable. Oral appliances are also commonly used because of their ease and convenience. Oral appliance therapy can help improve people’s lives.

By treating sleep apnea and improving its symptoms, a person’s quality of life will improve. Although an oral appliance has many benefits, the devices are not suitable for everyone and cannot help with every case of sleep apnea. If you are considering oral appliance therapy, consult your doctor. Your doctor will be able to inform you whether an oral appliance can help with your condition and snoring problem and if you are a good candidate for the treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilebeautification.com or call Rolando Cibischino D.M.D. at (201) 204-1355 for an appointment in our Hackensack office.

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