Have you been diagnosed with sleep apnea? Do you snore or get up feeling tired and groggy?
Wayne Family Dentistry can provide an alternative to the CPAP for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or anyone who is intolerant of the CPAP. Treating sleep apnea is important and can help you enjoy a better quality of life each day. Sleep apnea has also been linked to health concerns including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and an increased risk for stroke. We offer oral appliance therapy to treat sleep apnea without the inconveniences associated with the CPAP.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy uses a mouthguard-like device to adjust how the jaw rests when sleeping, allowing the airway to remain more open and you to breathe more freely. It is easy to wear, relatively comfortable, and portable. Since the majority of patients are compliant and will use their oral appliances as prescribed, it is shown to be highly effective at reducing the symptoms of sleep apnea and supporting improved health.
Patients with sleep apnea experience a collapse of tissue at the back of the throat that is often the result of an airway problem. When this occurs during sleep, it momentarily stops normal breathing and patients will snore loudly while gasping for air. If this is ongoing, it affects overall health and wellness. Sleep apnea also produces several common symptoms to be aware of:
- Feeling tired and groggy most of the time, even after sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased moodiness and feeling irritable
- Dry mouth in the morning
Sleep apnea is more prevalent in males and being overweight can also increase your risk.
If you are concerned that you have a sleep-related disorder or have been told that you snore, it is important to seek diagnosis and treatment. Our dental care team can work with you to obtain a proper diagnosis with a local medical professional. For mild to moderate cases, we can offer oral appliance treatment. Schedule an appointment in our Wayne PA dental practice to explore your options. We welcome new patients and provide comprehensive dental care, including treatment for complex concerns such as sleep apnea and TMJ.