Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea: Do they Work?

The primary cause of poor sleep is sleep apnea. In this condition, a person stops and starts breathing many times during sleep. Sleep apnea can cause numerous health issues. In a few cases, it is dangerous. But luckily, it is treatable.

As per one study, nearly 22 million individuals in the United States struggle with sleep apnea. For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, using a sleep apnea oral appliance in Houston, TX is a good option. It is a great alternative to CPAP or surgery. Read further to know whether dental devices for sleep apnea work.

What is Sleep Apnea Treatment?

The sleep specialist or the orthodontist near you will advise several procedures to address sleep apnea. They are known as sleep apnea treatments. They work by eliminating physical blockages from the upper airway of the patients. The professional recommends the treatment after evaluating your symptoms, checking your medical history, and conducting a sleep study.

Which Are Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea?

Below are the most common dental devices used for sleep apnea:

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

Mandibular advancement devices are common oral appliances that look like a mouthguard. They have custom metal springs or hinges to bring the lower jaw and tongue ahead slightly. The main motto of MAD is to keep the airways open and prevent the tongue from collapsing into the throat. It allows the patient to breathe comfortably throughout the night. Many MADs are tailored by dentists.

These devices also make the tongue and nearby mouth muscles strong. The doctor will advise this option if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea. Mandibular Advancement Device has a plastic base that masks the upper teeth, lower teeth, and gum lining. It means it snaps over the top of teeth and fits the upper and lower arches.

Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs)

Tongue-retaining mouthpieces function the same as mandibular advancement devices except there is no part that slips over the teeth. They hold the tongue in its position via silicone or soft plastic devices that rest around the tongue.

The patient only needs to insert his/her tongue into the tongue-retaining device. It uses the suction force to keep the tongue forward. It prevents it from collapsing back into the upper throat and obstructing the airway. If your jaw or mouth structure makes it hard to reposition the jaw, you are a suitable candidate for a tongue-retaining device.

Mouth Guards

Sleep apnea mouth guards are dental appliances that fit over the gums and teeth while you sleep. They open the airway by shifting the lower jaw ahead. It prevents the soft palate and tongue from subsiding and obstructing the airway.

Although mouthguards are less effective when compared to tongue-retaining devices and mandibular advancement devices, they are best if sleep apnea occurs when sleeping on your back or if you have mild sleep apnea. Today, mouthguards for sleep apnea are available in diverse materials and designs. They are also customizable by the orthodontist in 77018, depending on the needs of the person.

How Effective Are Sleep Apnea Oral Appliances?

Sleep apnea oral appliances are not effective for everyone. In a few people, it reduces snoring and obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. However, other people might need other treatment. Usually, dental devices for sleep apnea function well if you are struggling with mild or moderate sleep apnea.

It means if you have central sleep apnea, it will not work effectively. Furthermore, if you are not obese and you find your symptoms improve when you lie on your side, you are more likely to take advantage of sleep apnea oral appliances.

How Properly Do Dental Devices Work When Compared to a CPAP Machine?

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the most common method to address sleep apnea. It is a perfect option if you have moderate or severe sleep apnea and do not want to use a sleep apnea dental appliance. An oral device usually functions to improve signs of sleep apnea but may not manage the condition fully.

But when compared to dental devices, the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine functions more effectively to treat sleep apnea. Contacting the sleep specialist at Greater Houston Dental Arts will help you find the most suitable sleep apnea treatment for you as per your case.