In our previous blogs, we’ve talked about how we diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring to provide relief. But in today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist would like to focus mainly on the treatment option itself. How does a sleep appliance offer an alternative to the CPAP device that ensures you rest easier?
Assessments and Home Tests
If you begin to wake suddenly in the night coughing, choking, or struggling to breathe, or if you experienced daytime drowsiness, moodiness, or other signs of poor sleep, let us know. We will start with a thorough assessment to see if you experience risk factors of OSA. If so, we will obtain a detail and perform a diagnosis with a home sleep test. The Pulse Oximeter will sit at your bed side and record your sleep habits, letting us know if you need treatment. For some, we may also suggest a physician-ordered sleep study in a lab setting.
Crafting an Appliance
Once we decide you need an oral appliance, our team will take detailed images, measurements, and impression of your smile. The information enables us to customize your device for a proper fit. That way during treatment you maintain good bit balance and a comfortable fit.
Treatment
The device will be worn as you sleep. During the night, this CPAP alternative will help reposition the jaw, moving it forward slightly and supporting oral structures, which keeps air passages open and makes breathing easy. You then avoid the symptoms of OSA, and enjoy improved quality of life. We will check up in with you every few weeks and months to ensure you’re experiencing proper results and enjoying a better night’s night.
Better Habits
We also have a few tips to help ensure you rest easier. For example, in the two hours before bed try to avoid caffeinated products, excessive alcohol consumption, large meals, or vigorous exercise. Keep your bedroom dark and cool, and maintain a good sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same times each day. Rest on your side, not your back too. Try to avoid screens right before bed, especially smartphone screens, as the blue light they emit could be misinterpreted by the brain as daylight, impacting your ability to go to bed. If you have any questions about our custom-made sleep appliances, or about our diagnostic options, then contact our team today. We want to help you rest with ease!
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Treats OSA
At Smith Family Dentistry, we know how to work with our patients to help them sleep better at night. To learn more about finally tackling your sleep disorder, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.