It may be time for you to consult a dentist regarding treatment for sleep apnea. Dental sleep medicineA growing segment of dentistry focuses on treating sleep apnea and snoring with oral appliance therapy. This is an effective alternative to standard treatment, which includes continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), a mask and machine. Oral appliance therapy is a method that uses a “mouth guard-like”Device that is worn while you sleep to keep your airway open and unobstructed.
“Oral appliances are very effective in treating sleep apnea because they maintain an open, unobstructed airway for patients,”B. Gail Demko DMD is the president of American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). “Depending on the patient’s needs, the device will either hold the tongue in place or support the jaw in a forward position to keep the patient’s airway open and provide a more refreshing sleep.”
The AADSM estimates that between 12-18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. This is a condition in which they stop breathing for as little as a few seconds up to a full minute. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues such as stroke, congestive heart failure and high blood pressure.
CPAP is the traditional treatment for sleep apnea. It can be difficult for people to adjust to CPAP machines, which include a face mask, tubing, and a running motor. According to the AADSM up to half of those suffering from sleep apnea do not accept or tolerate CPAP.
Oral appliance therapy was developed by dentists to treat sleep apnea. Oral devices are much more comfortable than CPAP masks for many. They are portable, quiet, and easy to maintain. Oral appliance therapy has been shown to be as effective as CPAP, and can also have a higher rate of patient compliance.
“Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine work in conjunction with a sleep physician and recommend a specific oral appliance based on a patient’s needs,”Dr. Demko. “The important thing for patients to remember is that effective oral devices are always custom fit by a dentist and may need adjustments over time to ensure maximum effectiveness.”
For people suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is recommended. A dentist who is trained in dental medicine can treat the condition once it has been diagnosed by a board certified physician. Visit this website to find a dentist who offers oral appliance therapy in your area. www.LocalSleepDentist.com.
