We’ve been covering the process of recognizing and diagnosing issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring. In today’s blog, we continue this conversation by talking about our custom-made oral appliances. Your Greenville, TX, dentist will explain our non-CPAP approach to treating issues like OSA.
OSA and Snoring
Snoring occurs when the airways are partially obstructed by soft tissues as we sleep, a loud sound occurring as air is forced through and these tissues vibrate. With OSA, the same air passages are completely block, so the patient stops breathing for a brief moment until the brain wakes them to resume. While a person may remember this happening once or twice, it actually occurs multiple times, possibly hundreds in one night, so your sleep cycle is consistently interrupted and you remain exhausted the next day. Symptoms could include snoring, daytime drowsiness, trouble staying awake behind the wheel or concentrating on tasks at work or school, headaches, dry mouth, moodiness, and waking suddenly in the night gasping for air or choking. Long-term impacts include a weakened immune systems and even poor heart health.
Creating an Oral Appliance
Once we diagnose the issue with our sleep assessment and home test using the pulse oximeter device, our team will often prescribe an oral appliance. The device will be custom-fitted for your smile. To accomplish this, we take a series of clear and detailed digital scans, which enables us to design and craft the appliance in a dental lab setting. We want to device to fit completely, so you can rest with ease at night.
The Treatment Process
As you rest, the device will be worn like a mouthguard, fitting snugly over the teeth and repositioning the jaw to keep airways open. You then breathe without interruption and enjoy a better night’s rest. Over time, this reduces symptoms, relieves strain on your immune system and heart health, and helps improve your quality of life.
Better Nighttime Habits
You can also help yourself by avoiding alcohol and caffeinated products before bed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and resting on your side instead of your back. Make sure your bedroom is a dark, cool, and free of distracting screens, such as TVs, computers, and smartphones. If you have any questions about treating issues like OSA and restoring your quality of life, then contact our team today. We want to help you rest with ease again in 2021!
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Wants to Help You Rest
At Smith Family Dentistry, we’re ready to take a custom and personalized approach to improving your health. To learn more about how we improve overall health and rest, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.