Tuesday, September 11, 2012

How can Dental Sleep Medicine Treat My Sleep Apnea?


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.

Please contact IHateCPAP.com to locate a qualified sleep dentist near you

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/