If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, Dr. Duane Marshall may recommend oral appliance therapy to help manage this condition. Oral sleep appliances are specially designed to help you breathe easily at night, allowing you to get the rest you need and enjoy improved overall health and wellbeing.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most prevalent form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep. This can lead to a decrease in blood oxygen levels and disrupt sleep. Symptoms often include loud snoring, restless sleep and fatigue during the day. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to more severe health issues like hypertension, heart disease and diabetes. It is important to recognize these signs and consult with healthcare providers if you suspect you or a loved one suffers from this condition.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Works
Oral appliance therapy is a highly effective treatment for those suffering from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This noninvasive treatment involves the use of a custom-fitted device, similar to a night guard, sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer, which you wear in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. This is crucial as it prevents the airway from collapsing, which is the primary cause of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
Benefits of Oral Sleep Appliances
Oral sleep appliances offer several benefits that make them a favorable option for many patients. Firstly, they are simple and comfortable to wear, as each device is custom-made to fit the unique contour of the patient’s mouth. They are also portable and convenient, making them ideal for travel. Unlike CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, oral appliances are quiet and unobtrusive. Patients often prefer these appliances due to their ease of use and the fact that they do not require electricity or cumbersome equipment.
Moreover, oral appliances can significantly improve the quality of sleep and thereby enhance overall health. Improved sleep can lead to better concentration, less daytime fatigue and a lower risk of developing serious medical conditions associated with untreated sleep apnea. Additionally, partners of patients using oral appliances also report better sleep due to reduced snoring by their partners.
Schedule A Consultation
For more information about oral sleep appliances in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and to schedule your personal consultation with our dentist, please contact Mountain View Dentistry today at 505-867-1442. We are dedicated to helping you enjoy restful sleep and maintain your overall health.
505-867-1442