Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that impacts millions of people worldwide. Affected individuals struggle with multiple interruptions in their breathing during sleep each night. The pauses can last from a few seconds to over a minute, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the bloodstream and poor sleep quality. There are various types of sleep apnea, with the most common being obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The airway becomes partially or completely blocked due to relaxed muscles in the throat. The structure of the upper airway contributes to OSA, which can be influenced by factors like enlarged tonsils, obesity, or a recessed jaw.
The consequences of unaddressed sleep apnea can range from mild to severe. You may experience daytime fatigue, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. You may also face increased risks of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
In today’s blog post, let’s consider treatment options for sleep apnea as well as the benefits of addressing this common problem.
Before we dive in, it’s important to note that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the gold standard for treating moderate to severe cases of sleep apnea. However, dental treatments have become a valuable option, especially for patients with mild to moderate issues or those who cannot handle CPAP. Dental professionals can help manage sleep apnea with oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs).
MADs are custom-made mouthpieces that work by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue, ensuring the airway remains open during sleep. By shifting the jaw forward, these devices prevent the airway from collapsing, thus reducing the instances of breathing interruptions. They are particularly helpful for people with sleep apnea caused by a small or recessed lower jaw or an underbite. They are worn at night and offer a far more comfortable option than CPAP machines.
This device gently moves the lower jaw, or mandible, forward, which moves the tongue away from the back of the throat. This small shift prevents airway obstruction, especially for people who struggle with airway collapse due to muscle relaxation or anatomical issues. While CPAP forces air into the airway through a mask, MADs depend on mechanical adjustment of the jaw to naturally keep the airway open.
Now, let’s consider four benefits of addressing sleep apnea with dental treatment.
1. MADs are non-invasive.
A dental device is less invasive than other treatment options, like a CPAP machine or surgery. After all, the idea of wearing a mouthguard is much more palatable than wearing a mask connected to a CPAP machine all night!
2. MADs are comfortable.
CPAP therapy may be uncomfortable due to the constant air pressure or mask. MADs, however, are custom-fitted and created with soft materials that are comfortable.
3. MADs are compact.
MADs are portable and easy to carry, making them a better option for frequent travelers. Additionally, they don’t require a power source like CPAP machines.
4. MADs improve sleep quality.
Patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea usually see reduced snoring and better sleep quality when using a MAD.
Ultimately, patients have an improved quality of life thanks to dental treatment for sleep apnea.
By reducing their symptoms, they often experience better sleep, improved mood, higher energy levels, and enhanced overall health.
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your dental care!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like your family’s dental routine, dental anxiety, and more.