For those who suffer from sleep apnea, a standard treatment option is the use of a sleep apnea appliance. But one question that often arises is whether sleep apnea appliances work.
Complete Dental Care in Kellogg and Spokane is here to provide accurate and informative answers to all your questions about dental health. Let’s dive in and find out if sleep apnea appliances really do work.
A Serious Sleep Disorder
First of all, what is sleep apnea? It is a sleep disorder that repeatedly causes breathing to stop and start during sleep. This can lead to a variety of issues, including feeling excessively sleepy during the day, high blood pressure, and even heart disease. The most common treatment option for sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which is a device that uses air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
The Problem With CPAP Machines
While doctors often prescribe CPAP machines, they can be uncomfortable, loud, and cumbersome. Many patients report difficulty sleeping with the mask on or feeling claustrophobic. Others find that the machines make noise or leak air, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. For those who have been struggling with sleep apnea for years, the problems with CPAP machines can be frustrating and discouraging.
Thankfully, alternative treatments are available, and our dental team at Complete Dental Care is happy to work with patients to find the best solution for their needs. For example, a sleep apnea appliance can be an effective alternative for those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine.
A More Restful Sleep
Our team can custom design you a sleep apnea appliance to reposition the jaw and tongue to improve airflow. These appliances are worn during sleep and function similarly to a mouthguard. Not only do these appliances improve breathing during sleep, but they can also reduce snoring and improve overall sleep quality.
Studies comparing the efficacy of sleep apnea appliances to CPAP machines indicate that appliances are just as effective in reducing sleep apnea symptoms, including blood oxygen levels, daytime sleepiness, and snoring. However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of sleep apnea appliances can vary depending on each individual’s unique case and severity of sleep apnea.
Another key benefit of sleep apnea appliances is their ease of use. Unlike a CPAP machine, which can be cumbersome and require an electrical outlet, sleep apnea appliances are easy to travel with, and you can use them anywhere. They are also less invasive than surgery, another treatment option for sleep apnea.
Maintaining Your Appliance
It is worth noting that sleep apnea appliances require regular maintenance and adjustments. As you continue to use a sleep apnea appliance, your bite can change, and the device may become less effective. It is essential to have regular dental check-ups with your dentist to ensure the device is still fitting correctly and working effectively.
It’s also important to care for your sleep apnea appliance properly. We’ll provide instructions for cleaning and storing your appliance. This usually involves using a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and allowing it to air dry before storing it in a case. Additionally, it’s essential to keep your teeth and mouth clean by brushing and flossing regularly and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash.
This helps prevent cavities and gum disease and ensures your appliance fits properly and comfortably. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your sleep apnea appliance in top condition and enjoy a good night’s sleep, free of interruptions.
Sleep Apnea Appliances in Kellogg and Spokane
So, do sleep apnea appliances really work? The answer is yes! While CPAP machines are a commonly prescribed treatment for sleep apnea, sleep apnea appliances can be an effective alternative for those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine. They can be just as effective in reducing sleep apnea symptoms, are easy to use, and can be used anywhere.
As with any dental treatment, regular check-ups and maintenance are crucial to ensure the device works properly. If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, talk to Dr. T.J. Scarborough about whether a sleep apnea appliance is the right treatment option for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at Complete Dental Care! We can help you with sleep apnea, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and even orthodontics in Kellogg, Idaho, and Spokane, Washington!