Sleep Apnea Appliances

Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea in Middletown, CT

At Advanced Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep for your overall well-being. It not only helps you feel great but also allows you to perform at your best. In the United States, there are approximately 25 million adults who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea and even more who snore. We are here to provide effective solutions to address these issues, ensuring that you can enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted sleep. One such solution includes appliances for sleep apnea, which are dental devices designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea by keeping airways open during sleep.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. Central sleep apnea (CSA) involves lapses in breathing due to signaling issues in the brain stem, differentiating it from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is caused by physical blockages of the airway during sleep. The most prevalent form is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the airway is obstructed, impeding the flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth. People with this condition experience excessive relaxation of the throat and mouth muscles during sleep, leading to their collapse and the subsequent blockage of the airway, resulting in breathing difficulties.

What are the indications of sleep apnea?

Individuals with this disorder may experience loud snoring, breathing cessation, abrupt awakenings, gasping for air, and difficulties in achieving restful sleep during their sleeping hours. Moreover, sleep apnea can also lead to morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability throughout the day. Additionally, this condition is often associated with other medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular and heart issues, gastric reflux, and depression.

How can I determine if I have sleep apnea?

A physician can conduct a sleep study to determine if the disorder is present and how severe it is. The findings from this study, along with other medical results, will be used to determine the recommended therapy.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is considered the gold standard for maintaining open airways during sleep and is a commonly used method to treat obstructive sleep apnea. This device administers a steady stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system via a mask.

Oral Appliance Therapy: An Effective Solution for Sleep Apnea Treatment

Individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring are often recommended to use oral appliances. These devices, similar to mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, are worn during sleep to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat, ensuring that the airway remains open. Various designs are available to cater to specific needs. The primary objective of treatment is to decrease the occurrence and duration of apneas, hypopneas, and snoring.

Custom Oral Appliances, Skilled And Experienced Care

Our office specializes in Dental Sleep Medicine and is committed to providing skilled, experienced, and dependable care. We offer custom dental devices specifically designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by keeping airways open during sleep. Consulting a sleep specialist is crucial for effective treatment options and personalized care. These devices help maintain or clear the upper airway to reduce apnea episodes and improve airflow while sleeping. We take a comprehensive approach to treatment, carefully assessing your needs, oral anatomy, and taking precise impressions of your teeth to ensure optimal results. Our appliances are designed to be highly effective and comfortable, promoting a safer, more restful, and rejuvenating night’s sleep. In addition to creating and customizing each appliance, we also offer regular monitoring and adjustments to maximize health benefits and preserve the integrity of your smile. It’s important to note that many individuals with sleep apnea are unaware of their condition. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Oral Appliances

Oral appliance therapy is often recommended for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. While CPAP is the gold standard for treating OSA by delivering pressurized air through a mask, oral appliances are more comfortable and easier to use for many patients, providing a quieter and more portable alternative.

Individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy may be good candidates for oral appliance therapy. A sleep specialist can determine the severity of sleep apnea through a sleep study and recommend the appropriate treatment, including custom-made oral appliances for sleep apnea like mandibular advancement devices or tongue retaining devices.