If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may be struggling to find what works best for you in terms of treatment plans. Rest assured, your doctor can work with you to find a solution. One solution may be oral appliance therapy. A simple addition to your nighttime routine could be the difference between no sleep at all and that blissful eight hours your body craves!
What are oral appliances?
Oral appliances are used to treat many common disorders, sleep apnea being one of them. These appliances, oftentimes used alongside or in place of a Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) machine, allow for better breathing and air flow while you are sound asleep. These appliances are custom made to fit your mouth and jaw comfortably. Small and compact in size, these appliances are easy to use, easy to travel with, and easy to clean.
What do the oral appliances do?
Oral appliances accomplish two main tasks to allow for a safer sleep. They open the airway to allow a better pathway for air, and apply pressure to the tongue in order to keep it from falling backwards while sleeping which creates an obstructed airway. These appliances keep your airway open, allowing your body to breathe correctly while you are sleeping. Without it, your sleep apnea could cost you your life.
Comfort is key
These appliances offer more than an unobstructed airway. Compared to a traditional CPAP machine, they tend to be more cost-effective. Not only are they better for your wallet, they are more comfortable to sleep in than the CPAP machine. Though the CPAP has its own advantages, it can be clunky and uncomfortable for the user as well as their partner who may share a space with them. There are pros and cons to every appliance out there, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about which one is best for you!
Contact Dr. Sara at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions in Scottsdale to learn more about which oral appliance will help your sleep apnea most effectively while keeping you comfortable!