Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) a disorder in which we stop breathing multiple times in the night, leading to serious trouble staying rested and alert, and also impacting overall health too. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist will look at two different options often used to treat OSA, and explain why we often opt for a custom sleep appliance!
The Causes of OSA
With OSA, soft tissues in the rear of our mouth and in our throat collapse as we rest, cutting off airflow. We stop breathing until the brain wakes up to resume, and this interrupts our sleep cycle. Many people are unaware they ever stop breathing, even though it happens hundreds of times per night and could leave them feeling exhausted during the day. Over time, the constant interruptions to rest strain both the immune system and the cardiovascular system, increasing the long-term risks of illness, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Warning signs include daytime drowsiness, dry mouth, headaches, irritability, and trouble staying focused on tasks at school or work. If you encounter one or more of these warning signs, the let us know!
Treatment with CPAP
A CPAP machine is a common option to treat OSA. Basically, the patients will wear a mask over the nose and mouth that is connected via a plastic hose to a machine. The machine pumps air through the mask and into the nose and mouth to ensure people keep breathing and avoid interruptions to the sleep cycle. While effective, for many patients the device is loud and cumbersome, and a hindrance to proper rest. Fortunately, our team is proud to offer an alternative!
An Alternative with Sleep Appliances
A sleep appliance doesn’t require the use of machinery at night at all. Instead, the patient will wear a device that looks and fits like a nightguard. We have a number of options, including the Dynaflex Dorsal, the Thorton Adjustable Positioner, and the EMA and Herbst appliances. These devices actually help reposition the jaw to prevent the collapse of soft tissues as you sleep. Airways remain open, so you breathe without interruption and avoid the symptoms of OSA. You wake feeling rested, and enjoy an improved quality of life and better overall health. Each device will be designed and created to fit your smile to ensure treatment with precision and accuracy. If you have any questions about our treatment options, or if you think you may need a sleep assessment or home sleep study, then contact our team today.
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Is Ready to Treat Your Disorder
At Smith Family Dentistry, our team is ready to help you enjoy optimal rest with a custom-made appliance. To learn more about addressing OSA, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.