Using Dental Appliances For Sleep Apnea Is An Effective Alternative To CPAP

By Ines Brennan


Patients experiencing the condition known as sleep apnea suffer from periods of shallow respiration or even no respiration while they are sleeping. Some patients are recommended to use a CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure), but this isn't appropriate for everyone. The use of dental appliances for sleep apnea is another approach which is simple and can also be effective for establishing normals respiratory patterns.

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.

Other assessment measures may also be needed in order to design a properly fitting device for the patient. A second set of impressions will be taken and sent to a laboratory where they will be used in the manufacture of the appliance itself. Once the device is completed, the patient will need to try it on to see if any adjustments will be needed.

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.

The patient will also need to attend a sleep study session after several weeks of treatment. This is done to determine if the approach has successfully eliminated or reduced the occurrence of apnea. It is advisable to undergo this assessment in the same facility where the first diagnostic was carried out, in order to allow easier comparison of results.

Dental appliances for sleep apnea are a good solution for many people who do not wish to use a CPAP machine. It is important to make sure the device fits and works right and only obtain it through the direction of a dental care provider who is familiar with this area of treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to make changes in order to produce better results.




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