Sleep apnea is a serious condition that many people suffer from. As modern medicine has evolved, there are now more options for treating it. Consulting with a dentist regarding sleep apnea is becoming popular because they have a few different treatment routes that patients can take. Dental sleep medicine is a special field that focuses on treating sleeping conditions through proven dentistry methods.
Want to know more about what dentists recommend for treating sleep apnea? This information can be especially helpful to someone who isn’t sure where to turn for treatment. The condition should never go ignored and it is always a good idea to consider each option carefully.
Below, we outline a few different devices that patients can consider when suffering from sleep apnea. Keep reading to find out more!
A continuous positive airway pressure device is often used to treat sleep apnea. Dentists recommend these devices because they deliver constant and steady air pressure to a person while they are sleeping. A CPAP machine involves the use of a hose, mouthpiece and sometimes a mask too. The mouthpiece or mask is worn while the patient is sleeping and connected to the hose. On the other end, the hose connects to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air. Long-term, these devices are proven to provide positive results for patients suffering from sleep apnea.
One oral appliance device that dentists recommend for sleep apnea treatment is a mandibular advancement device. It looks very similar to a mouthguard that sports players wear; however, it is used solely for treating sleep apnea. The device snaps over the top half and bottom half of the teeth, and on either side are metal hinges that keep it in place. These hinges allow the jaw to ease forward and stay in place while the patient is sleeping, thus preventing sleep apnea symptoms from occurring.
Another great option for treating sleep apnea that dentists recommend is a tongue-retaining oral appliance. This type of device looks very similar to a pacifier for babies, but it has a hole right in the middle of it. The tongue rests in that hole during the night so that the airway remains open while the patient is asleep. A tongue-retaining device is less commonly used, however the results are proven to be successful.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can cause a lot of medical problems for patients if it goes untreated. With the help of a dentist, patients can undergo dental treatment that may significantly improve symptoms.
If you have questions regarding sleep apnea treatment from a dentist, then reach out to our office so that we can help you further. Let our team come up with the best type of treatment for you! Give us a call or stop by today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.schommerdental.com or call Schommer Dental at (563) 272-2331 for an appointment in our Davenport office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sleep Apnea in Davenport, IA.
Individuals that have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea may be considering all of the different options for treatment in order to get a restful night of sleep. While one may feel like a cumbersome sleep machine, such as a bi-PAP or CPAP, is the only option, there may be some less invasive options that…
Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder many people suffer from. Essentially, it is when breathing stops while sleeping. While this is considered a serious medical condition, the consequences of having sleep apnea usually do not pose a health risk. However, sometimes it can be dangerous, so you should always speak to your doctor upon noticing…
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that causes an involuntary cessation of breathing while you are asleep. The disorder also makes you feel tired even after a full night’s rest. There are three main types of sleep apnea: central, obstructive and complex.Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of the disorder and occurs when…
Regular preventative dental care is important. It can help you get an early diagnosis of potential cavities, so you can focus on giving those areas more attention. Regular dental cleanings can help remove plaque so there is not the chance of hardened plaque buildup occurring. Preventative dental care from a trusted dentist can save you…
Dental bonding is a quick yet durable way to repair teeth with these cosmetic imperfections.
Oral health needs change as we age, and seeing a family dentist can play a…
While a full mouth reconstruction can significantly improve oral health, function, and aesthetics, understanding its…
It is helpful to have a full understanding of what partial dentures are and why…
When it comes to a small tooth crack in general dentistry, the best option may…
A kid friendly dentist has the knowledge and training to meet your child’s needs. The…
