The global market for sleep apnea
diagnostic devices and therapeutic devices is expected to more than double and
be worth nearly $20 billion by 2017, according to a recent report by the
Dallas-based market research firm Markets and Markets.
While this is certainly welcome news to those who manufacture sleep apnea assessment and therapy devices, as well as those who diagnose and treat sleep apnea, it may also be viewed as a positive sign by those who suffer from sleep apnea. The report indicates that worldwide awareness of the dangers of sleep apnea is increasing along with the available treatment options for this potentially deadly sleep disorder.
In recent years, the field of dental sleep medicine has grown as more dentists become qualified to assess sleep apnea symptoms and offer customized treatment options. Sleep apnea treatment methods have also evolved.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices were long the standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form of sleep apnea. Although CPAP is effective when used regularly, many patients find the masks cumbersome and do not follow through on treatment.
Today, there are a number of comfortable and effective custom-made oral appliances that can be used to correct jaw and bite alignment problems and help those who suffer from OSA maintain an unobstructed airflow.
If you or your partner suffers from chronic snoring or other sleep apnea symptoms, an experienced sleep dentist may be able to help. Please contact IHateCPAP.com to locate a qualified dentist in your area.