Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person's breathing becomes very shallow or ceases altogether for several seconds periodically during sleep. The use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)machine is effective for some, but is not the only alternative. Dental appliances for sleep apnea can also help correct this condition and encourage normal breathing patterns in patients.
There are many types of appliances which can prevent sleep apnea which work in different ways. Some reposition the lower jaw while others hold the tongue in a forward position. Although such devices can be obtained rather easily, including ordering them online, it is always best to visit a dentist or orthodontist who specializes in this kind of treatment. They will be able to provide patients with custom-fitted appliances which are more effective than those which are ready to wear and not made to specifications.
The dental professional will make some plaster impressions of the patient's teeth. These molds are used to fashion the appliance based on the specific dimensions and shape of the mouth. If the device is made especially for the patient it will fit better making it more comfortable and effective at achieving its purpose.
The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.
Anti-apnea appliances are mostly worn much like a retainer. It is common for them to feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but as the wearer becomes accustomed to it, this typically fades. If there is notable jaw pain, specifically in the temporomandibular joint, this needs to be evaluated by the dentist and should be monitored closely to avoid a long-term problem. Those with TMJ may need to consider a different route of treatment.
Wearing the device will normally cause the jaw to shift increasingly forward. This is usually apparent by six months or more of appliance use. This effect is intended as it increases the safety and effectiveness of the device.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea are a good solution for many people who do not wish to use a CPAP machine. It is important to make sure the device fits and works right and only obtain it through the direction of a dental care provider who is familiar with this area of treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to make changes in order to produce better results.
There are many types of appliances which can prevent sleep apnea which work in different ways. Some reposition the lower jaw while others hold the tongue in a forward position. Although such devices can be obtained rather easily, including ordering them online, it is always best to visit a dentist or orthodontist who specializes in this kind of treatment. They will be able to provide patients with custom-fitted appliances which are more effective than those which are ready to wear and not made to specifications.
The dental professional will make some plaster impressions of the patient's teeth. These molds are used to fashion the appliance based on the specific dimensions and shape of the mouth. If the device is made especially for the patient it will fit better making it more comfortable and effective at achieving its purpose.
The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.
Anti-apnea appliances are mostly worn much like a retainer. It is common for them to feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but as the wearer becomes accustomed to it, this typically fades. If there is notable jaw pain, specifically in the temporomandibular joint, this needs to be evaluated by the dentist and should be monitored closely to avoid a long-term problem. Those with TMJ may need to consider a different route of treatment.
Wearing the device will normally cause the jaw to shift increasingly forward. This is usually apparent by six months or more of appliance use. This effect is intended as it increases the safety and effectiveness of the device.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea are a good solution for many people who do not wish to use a CPAP machine. It is important to make sure the device fits and works right and only obtain it through the direction of a dental care provider who is familiar with this area of treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to make changes in order to produce better results.
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