An increasing number of
dentists are becoming qualified in the specialized field of dental sleep
medicine, which offers custom oral appliances as a comfortable and
effective alternative to traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
devices for the treatment of sleep apnea.
Although CPAP machines
have proven capable of maintaining open airways as patients sleep, many people
who suffer from sleep apnea find the masks uncomfortable and confining, and do
not use the devices long-term. Oral appliances can
often be a viable solution for those with sleep apnea who can’t tolerate CPAP.
Dental sleep medicine
entails the assessment of sleep apnea symptoms, the selection of an appropriate
oral appliance, the custom design and fitting of the device, and follow-up
care. Sleep apnea oral appliances are custom-made to conform comfortably to
your individual bite and are worn during sleep to maintain an unobstructed airway.
Similar in appearance
to sports mouthguards, oral appliances keep your tongue in a forward position
and help maintain proper jaw position as you sleep. Maintaining an open airflow
as you sleep can eliminate snoring
and other symptoms of sleep apnea.
Because there are a
number of sleep apnea oral appliances on the market, only a thorough exam with
a qualified sleep dentist can determine the best treatment option for you. If
necessary, your dentist may collaborate with a sleep study center.