Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common issue where the upper airway gets blocked during sleep, leading to loud snoring and breathing problems.
Many people suffer from OSA, which affects sleep quality and overall health. If untreated, it can cause high blood pressure, daytime sleepiness, and other health problems.
While positive airway pressure is a common treatment, many folks are looking for alternatives. Dental appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices and splints, are becoming popular for their ease of use and long restful sleep.
These oral devices are growing in popularity for effective treatment of sleep apnea and snoring.
What Are the Types of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea comes in two main types: central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
OSA happens when your upper airway gets blocked, causing loud snoring and breathing issues. Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when your brain doesn’t send the right signals to breathe during deep sleep.
Common symptoms include daytime sleepiness and loud snoring. A sleep study can help diagnose these issues.
Untreated sleep apnea can seriously harm your sleep quality and overall well-being, leading to adverse effects on your health. Treating sleep apnea with anti snoring dental appliances can improve your quality of life significantly.
Traditional Treatments for Sleep Apnea
Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It uses a machine to keep your airway open during sleep. While it’s effective, some folks find it hard to stick with due to discomfort.
Surgical options exist as well, but they come with risks and are usually a last resort. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight and sleeping on your side can also help.
At Shreve Denture Clinic, we offer dental appliances for snoring and sleep apnea as an effective alternative. These oral devices, including mandibular advancement splints, are worth considering for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Dental appliances are custom-made devices used in oral appliance therapy to treat sleep apnea. They are a great option for those who struggle with traditional treatments. These dental devices include tongue-retaining and mandibular advancement devices.
Mandibular advancement devices push the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open during sleep. Tongue-retaining devices hold the tongue in place to prevent blockage. Now, these oral appliances are effective for mild to moderate problems and even some cases of severe sleep apnea.
A sleep specialist or other medical professional can help determine the best sleep apnea oral appliance for you. At Shreve Denture Clinic in Leamington, Ontario, Canada, we offer affordable and effective anti snoring dental appliances to improve your sleep quality.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Mandibular advancement devices are custom-fitted dental appliances designed to treat sleep apnea syndrome. They work by pushing the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open during sleep.
Moreover, at Shreve Denture Clinic, we ensure a perfect fit through a thorough customization process. This involves taking precise measurements and moulds of your teeth.
Studies show that these devices are effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea, with high compliance rates. Many patients find them comfortable and easy to use, which improves their sleep time and reduces sleep latency. Whether for sleep apnea or simple snoring, these devices offer a reliable solution.
Tongue-Retaining Devices
Tongue-retaining devices keep your tongue in place to prevent it from blocking your airway during sleep. They are useful for treating sleep-disordered breathing and can be a good alternative to other treatments.
However, some users find them less comfortable than mandibular advancement devices, as they can cause drooling or dry mouth. Despite these issues, many patients see significant improvements.
Studies show good success rates, especially for those who can’t use other devices. Consulting a sleep dentist at a sleep clinic can help you decide if this option is right for you and may improve sleep latency and quality.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Appliances
Dental appliances are a popular choice for treating sleep apnea. They offer many benefits but also have some drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at both.
Benefits
Naturally, dental appliances come with several advantages:
- Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, they don’t require any invasive procedures.
- Portable: Easy to travel with and use anywhere.
- Comfortable: Many find them more comfortable than other treatments.
- Customizable: They can be tailored to fit your mouth perfectly.
- Effective for mild to moderate Cases: Works well for mild sleep apnea and some moderate cases.
Drawbacks
There are also some downsides to consider:
- Jaw discomfort: They can cause soreness or pain in the jaw.
- Dry mouth: Some users experience dry mouth during the night.
- Adjustment period: It might take time to get used to wearing them.
- Not for everyone: They may not be suitable for severe sleep apnea.
Comparison with PAP Therapy
There are notable differences between dental appliances and positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Dental appliances are generally more comfortable and easier to use. They don’t involve wearing a mask or using a machine.
However, PAP therapy tends to have a higher compliance rate and is often more effective for severe sleep apnea. It’s important to consult with a sleep specialist to determine the best option for you.
At Shreve Denture Clinic, we offer a range of sleep apnea dental appliances. Our team can help you find the best fit for your needs, ensuring a good night’s sleep without the hassle.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of a dental device for sleep apnea can range from $500 to $2,500. Prices vary based on the type of device and customization needed.
Most sleep apnea dental appliances are not covered by basic insurance plans. However, some extended health benefits might cover part of the cost. It’s best to check with your insurance provider.
For better coverage, get a complete assessment at a sleep clinic. A sleep dentist can provide documentation to support your claim. Addressing sleep-disordered breathing with these devices can improve your resting time and reduce symptoms.
Shreve Denture Clinic’s Approach
At Shreve Denture Clinic, we specialize in custom-fitted dental appliances for sleep apnea and snoring. Our devices help keep the airway open during sleep, which reduces sleep-disordered breathing.
Patients have shared positive feedback, praising our effective solutions and caring service. Moreover, our team is dedicated to improving your quality of life by addressing sleep apnea symptoms – even if you couldn’t get even an hour of sleep.
Whether you suffer from simple snoring or sleep apnea syndrome, we provide a complete assessment to find the best solution for you. Visit us for a custom device for sleep apnea that fits your needs perfectly.
Wrapping Up
Dental appliances are effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea and reducing snoring. They help keep the airway during sleep open and improve overall sleep quality.
If you have sleep apnea symptoms, it’s important to consult with a medical professional or sleep specialist to find the best treatment for you. At Shreve Denture Clinic, we offer custom sleep apnea dental appliances to fit your needs.
Contact us for a free consultation and a complete assessment. Let us help you improve your sleep time and health. Whether you have sleep apnea syndrome or simple snoring, we’re here to help.
