Oral appliance therapy is a treatment from dental professionals for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, snoring, and sleep apnea. It is an adjustable appliance worn in the mouth during sleep. The custom-made oral appliance maintains the lower jaw in a forward position. When used correctly, mild sleep apnea can be minimized and even eliminated.
The way an oral appliance for sleep apnea works is simple. A device is placed within the mouth, making the jaw bone slightly further forward than usual. This stabilizes the tongue and lower jaw, repositioning them, thus making room for air to enter and to sleep more easily.
Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy
There are many distinct benefits of wearing a dental appliance for sleep apnea, these include the fact that they’re:
- Quiet
- Comfortable
- Easy to wear
- Portable
- Easy to care for
For some patients, an oral appliance can be an alternative to continuous positive airway (CPAP) pressure therapy.
How Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center Can Help
Your dentist will work closely with your doctor to treat sleep apnea and snoring and discuss the benefits of the oral appliance treatment.
After conducting a complete clinical evaluation, including examining your airway, tongue, teeth, and jaw, your dentist sends digital models and impressions of your teeth to a dental lab, where your appliance is made.
When your appliance is ready, you’ll visit your dentist for a fitting. This involves placing the appliance in your mouth to ensure it fits properly and is comfortable. Your dentist will then make any necessary adjustments to the appliance to ensure its effectiveness.
Your dentist will also schedule follow-up visits at regular intervals, typically every 3-6 months, to ensure your appliance is well. These visits are important to ensure the long-term success of your treatment. Your dentist may also adjust your appliance during these visits if necessary.
Oral Appliance Therapy Outlook
With successful oral appliance therapy, you can live again free from symptoms. Also, your quality of life can be dramatically improved when you’re getting a good night’s sleep. You will be re-energized, and your mind will feel sharper when you get a good night’s sleep, not to mention that your partner will finally be able to get a good night’s rest.
If you’re concerned that you may have sleep apnea and reside near the Chicagoland area, contact us and ask us about oral appliance therapy.