Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, it can lead to a range of health complications if left untreated. At Ardsley Dental Spa, we are dedicated to helping our patients overcome sleep apnea with effective treatments, including oral appliance therapy. This blog post will explore what sleep apnea is, how oral appliance therapy can help, and answer some frequently asked questions about this treatment.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder where an individual’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep. This can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the body and disrupt sleep.
Symptoms of sleep apnea can include loud snoring, episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking, morning headache, daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, and high blood pressure.
How Can Oral Appliance Therapy Help?
Oral appliance therapy involves the use of a custom-fit ‘mouth guard-like’ device that is worn only during sleep to maintain the openness of the airway. These appliances work by slightly advancing the lower jaw or holding the tongue in a different position to keep the airway open. Here at Ardsley Dental Spa, we provide specialized care to design an appliance that is comfortable and effective for each individual patient.
Benefits of oral appliance therapy include:
- Ease of Use: Oral appliances are small, portable, and easy to wear.
- Comfort: Custom-fitted to each patient, they are generally more comfortable than CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines.
- Effectiveness: They are very effective in treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
- Convenience: Ideal for travel and do not require electricity.
Comprehensive Q&A
Q: How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
A: If you experience symptoms such as severe snoring, long pauses in breathing during sleep, daytime fatigue, and sudden awakenings with a sensation of gasping or choking, you might have sleep apnea. A formal diagnosis typically requires a sleep study conducted by a medical professional.
Q: Is oral appliance therapy uncomfortable?
A: Most patients find oral appliance therapy quite comfortable after a brief adjustment period. Since each appliance is custom-made to fit your mouth, issues like discomfort are minimized.
Q: Are there any side effects of using an oral appliance?
A: Some people may experience minor side effects such as jaw discomfort, dry mouth, or excessive salivation initially, but these usually resolve as you get used to wearing the appliance.
Q: How effective is oral appliance therapy compared to CPAP?
A: For mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy can be as effective as CPAP. However, for severe sleep apnea, CPAP is often more effective. Your doctor can help determine the best treatment option based on the severity of your condition.
Q: How do I get an oral appliance?
A: Start with a consultation at Ardsley Dental Spa. If you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, we can proceed with fitting you for a custom oral appliance.
Q: Can oral appliance therapy help with snoring?
A: Yes, by keeping the airway open, an oral appliance can also reduce or eliminate snoring, improving the sleep quality of both you and your partner.
Conclusion
Oral appliance therapy offers a promising solution for many individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. It combines ease of use, comfort, and effectiveness in a way that can significantly improve quality of life. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea or if you’re looking for an alternative to CPAP, contact Ardsley Dental Spa today to discuss whether oral appliance therapy could be right for you. Your journey towards better sleep could start with a simple consultation.