Obstructive sleep
apnea (OSA) is a dangerous sleep disorder that can increase your risk of
developing a number of potentially fatal medical conditions if left untreated.
Continuous positive
airway pressure (CPAP) devices have long been the standard for treating OSA.
CPAP helps users maintain an unobstructed airway as they sleep via a mask that continuously
circulates oxygen.
However, few people
stick with CPAP long enough to enjoy the benefits because many people find the
mask cumbersome or claustrophobic. In recent years, the field of dental sleep
medicine has evolved to include effective and more comfortable means of
helping those with OSA and other types of sleep apnea correct airway blockage
and restore restful sleep for OSA sufferers and their partners.
In addition to CPAP,
today’s sleep apnea treatments include the use of oral appliances similar
to sports mouthguards. These appliances help users hold their jaw in proper
alignment as they sleep, and they help prevent the tongue and soft tissue in
the throat from collapsing and blocking the airway.
If you or your partner
suffers from chronic snoring or other symptoms of sleep apnea, a dentist
experienced in dental sleep medicine can help assess whether you have sleep
apnea and recommend a treatment plan for you.