Patients Using Dental Appliances For Sleep Apnea Can Experience Relief

By Ines Brennan


Patients experiencing the condition known as sleep apnea suffer from periods of shallow respiration or even no respiration while they are sleeping. Some patients are recommended to use a CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure), but this isn't appropriate for everyone. The use of dental appliances for sleep apnea is another approach which is simple and can also be effective for establishing normals respiratory patterns.

Different types of appliances exist for this purpose which work in various ways but achieve the same results. There are some which keep the tongue in a forward position, while others reposition the lower jaw. It is easy to come by these appliances, as there are even online sites where they can be bought, however it is recommended to instead consult a dentist or orthodontist who provides this type of treatment. Patients will be fitted for custom-made appliances that offer more comfort and effectiveness.

A dental healthcare provider will make plaster molds of the patient's teeth. These impressions will be used to craft a device which takes into account the unique size and shape of the mouth. Ultimately a custom-made appliance will offer a higher level of effectiveness and more comfort.

The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.

Most anti-apnea devices are worn similar to a retainer, there may be some slight discomfort at first but this is normal and in most cases the patient gets used to it without problem. However, if there is any pain in the jaw, especially the temporomandibular joint, this must be pointed out to the dentist as another approach may be needed. People who suffer from TMJ are not good candidates for using these appliances. Any discomfort in the jaw needs to be closely watched, in order to prevent a problem from developing.

Wearing the device will normally cause the jaw to shift increasingly forward. This is usually apparent by six months or more of appliance use. This effect is intended as it increases the safety and effectiveness of the device.

Patients will also be referred to undergo a sleep study once several weeks of treatment have passed. It's best if this is done at the same facility where the initial evaluation was carried out. It is easier this way to see if the device is helping the patient, by comparing results to the original study.

Not everyone can or wants to use a CPAP machine to control this disorder. Dental appliances for sleep apnea are the ideal solution for such patients. One must be sure to visit a dental professional however, as to get the most suitable device for his or her unique mouth shape. In some instances, an appliance may need to be altered to increase its effectiveness.




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