Sleep apnea is a common sleeping disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may be wondering if an oral appliance could be an effective treatment option for you.
Cause of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea and occurs when the muscles in the throat fail to keep the airway open during sleep. This can cause a person to snore loudly or stop breathing for short periods of time, which can lead to a range of health issues. Some common contributors to obstructive sleep apnea include obesity, age, genetics, and the use of sedatives or alcohol.
Why Oral Appliances Help People with Sleep Apnea
Oral sleep appliances, also known as mandibular advancement therapy, are a type of sleep apnea treatment that can help alleviate the symptoms of OSA by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open when you sleep. These devices are typically custom-made for each patient. By repositioning the jaw and tongue, oral appliances can help reduce snoring and improve breathing during sleep, leading to better sleep quality and a reduction in symptoms.
Many people with sleep apnea find that they prefer oral sleep appliances over CPAP machines for a variety of reasons:
Comfort: CPAP machines require wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to fall asleep. Oral sleep appliances, on the other hand, are custom fitted to the patient’s mouth and are designed to be comfortable to wear throughout the night.
Convenience: CPAP machines require a power source, which can be cumbersome when traveling or during power outages. Oral sleep appliances are small and easy to transport, making them a convenient option for people on the go.
Quiet: CPAP machines can be loud and disruptive, which can be a problem for both the user and their partner. Oral sleep appliances, on the other hand, are silent and do not emit any noise.
Non-invasive: CPAP machines require a mask to be worn over the face, which can feel invasive and cumbersome. Oral sleep appliances are non-invasive and do not interfere with the user’s ability to move around or change positions during the night.
Cost-effective: CPAP machines can be expensive, especially if the user requires additional accessories or replacement parts. Oral sleep appliances are often more cost-effective and can be covered by some insurance plans.
Ultimately, the decision to use an oral sleep appliance or a CPAP machine depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. It’s important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional to determine which treatment option is best for you.
Someone Who Cannot Use a CPAP Machine
Some people are what we call “CPAP intolerant.” Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common treatment for sleep apnea and involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth during sleep. The mask is attached to a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air pressure to keep the airway open. While CPAP therapy is highly effective for many people with sleep apnea, some patients find it difficult to tolerate or cannot use the machine due to issues such as claustrophobia or skin irritation.
For these patients, an oral appliance may be a better treatment alternative. Oral appliances are less invasive than CPAP therapy and do not require a machine or mask, making them a more comfortable and convenient option for many patients.
Why it Depends on the Type of Sleeping Disorder You Have
While oral appliances can be an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, it is important to note that they may not be suitable for all types of sleep disorders. For example, if you have central sleep apnea, which is caused by a dysfunction in the brain’s respiratory control center, an oral appliance will not be effective. Similarly, if you have severe sleep apnea, you may require more aggressive treatment, such as surgery or CPAP therapy. It’s important to speak with a sleep specialist or dentist who specializes in sleep apnea treatment to determine whether an oral appliance is a suitable treatment option for your specific condition.
How to Get an Oral Sleep Appliance for Apnea or Snoring
If you are interested in getting an oral appliance for sleep apnea or snoring, the first step is to schedule an appointment with a dentist who specializes in sleep apnea treatment. During your appointment, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and jaw to determine if an oral appliance is a suitable treatment option for you. They will also take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-fit oral appliance that is comfortable and effective.
It’s important to note that oral appliances are typically covered by medical insurance when prescribed for the treatment of sleep apnea. A sleep dentist can provide more information about insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs if your doctor prescribes an oral sleep appliance.
Know When to Speak to a Professional
It’s important to recognize the symptoms of a sleep disorder and seek professional help if you suspect you may have OSA. Some common signs of sleeping disorders may (or may not) include signs of:
- Chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Restless sleep or frequent waking during the night
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Mood changes, irritability, or depression
- Weight gain or feeling sluggish
- Problems concentrating at work or school
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. Your dentist may be able to provide an oral sleep appliance to alleviate the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea or snoring, but it’s important to have a proper diagnosis first.
A sleep study, or polysomnography, is often recommended to diagnose sleep disorders. This test measures your breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other physiological functions while you sleep. The great news is that some sleep tests can be taken at home using a portable monitor.
Once you have a diagnosis, your healthcare professional can recommend appropriate treatment options. Depending on the severity and type of sleep disorder, this may include oral appliances, CPAP therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of all of the above.
Remember, untreated sleep disorders can have serious consequences for your health and quality of life. They can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other medical conditions. They can also affect your mental health, job performance, and relationships. Don’t hesitate to speak with a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have a sleep disorder. Call our Long Island dentists today for an exam.