Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, affects around 936 million people worldwide. If you or someone you know is experiencing loud snoring, episodes of stopped breathing, or gasping for air during sleep, it could be sleep apnea.
This disorder doesn’t just lead to poor sleep quality—it can also have serious health consequences, including heart disease, stroke, and chronic daytime fatigue.
Surprisingly, up to 80% of moderate to severe cases remain undiagnosed, meaning many people are not receiving the treatment they need. While CPAP machines are a standard treatment, they aren’t the only option. Dental solutions are a highly effective, comfortable alternative that can help manage sleep apnea, providing a new way to enjoy better health and restful sleep.
Dental Solutions for Sleep Apnea
While traditional treatments like CPAP machines are widely used for sleep apnea, they aren’t always the most comfortable or convenient option. Dental solutions focus on working with the mechanics of the mouth and jaw to control airflow and soft tissue positioning. Some common dental appliances for sleep apnea include:
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) work by positioning the lower jaw forward, which tightens the muscles and tissues around the airway. This forward positioning prevents the airway from collapsing, reducing or eliminating the interruptions in breathing that characterize sleep apnea. This simple mechanical adjustment can make a huge difference in airflow, allowing for more restful and uninterrupted sleep.There are two main types of MADs: custom-fitted devices and over-the-counter devices.
- Custom-fitted MADs. These are made specifically for your mouth by a dental professional. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a device that fits perfectly, providing maximum comfort and effectiveness. Custom-fitted MADs are adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning to achieve the best results.
- Over-the-counter MADs. These are pre-made devices that can be purchased without a prescription. While more affordable, they are not tailored to your specific dental structure and may not be as comfortable or effective as custom-fitted options. Over-the-counter MADs might require some self-adjustment to fit reasonably well.
Studies have shown that MADs reduce sleep apnea symptoms for many patients, especially those with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Custom-fitted MADs have high success rates (around 77% in adult patients) due to their personalized fit and adjustability. Patients often find MADs more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines, leading to better compliance and consistent use.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs) are another effective dental solution for managing sleep apnea. The device fits around the tongue and uses gentle suction to hold it in place. By keeping the tongue forward, TRDs prevent airway obstruction, reducing the number of apnea episodes.
TRDs are noninvasive, requiring no dental impressions or custom fittings. They are simple to use, fit, adjust and require minimal maintenance. TRDs can be particularly effective for patients primarily suffering from tongue-based airway obstructions.
Research has found that TRDs can improve nighttime oxygen saturation and sleep quality (as assessed using the Epworth sleepiness scale). However, some users may find the suction uncomfortable or experience tongue soreness. TRDs may not stay in place for everyone, especially those with a strong gag reflex.
Transform Your Sleep Health with Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center
Discovering the right solution for sleep apnea can improve your quality of life. At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, our specialists are dedicated to providing customized dental appliances that work for you.
Ready to take control of your sleep health? Schedule a consultation with Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center today and start your journey toward improved sleep and health.