Sleep apnea is a condition which is characterized by periods of respiration which is either very shallow or stopped altogether. Some people who suffer from this disorder use a CPAP machine(continuous positive airway pressure) to help control their breathing patterns, but not everyone prefers to do this. Dental appliances for sleep apnea are another alternative solution which are easy to use and effective for normalizing respiration during sleep.
These appliances come in different shapes and sizes and function in various ways. Some are designed to secure the tongue in a forward position, while others influence the position of the lower jaw. There are ready-to-wear versions of these which can be purchased online, but it is better to go to a dentist or orthodontist who offers this treatment instead. They accurately assess the patient's mouth to design a custom-crafted apparatus which will provide more comfort and effectiveness.
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.
There are also other evaluations that need to be done in order to ensure that the device is made to proper fit. Another set of molds will be made and sent to a laboratory where the appliance will be created. When the patient returns he or she will receive the apparatus and the dentist will perform any adjustments that may be needed for fit and comfort.
Most anti-apnea devices are worn similar to a retainer, there may be some slight discomfort at first but this is normal and in most cases the patient gets used to it without problem. However, if there is any pain in the jaw, especially the temporomandibular joint, this must be pointed out to the dentist as another approach may be needed. People who suffer from TMJ are not good candidates for using these appliances. Any discomfort in the jaw needs to be closely watched, in order to prevent a problem from developing.
Over the course of wearing the apparatus, the jaw will gradually shift forward more, which is most notable after about six months of use. This occurs intentionally as to optimize the effectiveness of the appliance and the safety of its use.
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 can be quite effective and are a good option for patients who do not wish to rely on a CPAP machine each night. It's always a good idea to consult a dental professional when seeking this kind of treatment, in order to get the most suitable device for the patient. In some cases, changes in treatment are needed for a better outcome.
These appliances come in different shapes and sizes and function in various ways. Some are designed to secure the tongue in a forward position, while others influence the position of the lower jaw. There are ready-to-wear versions of these which can be purchased online, but it is better to go to a dentist or orthodontist who offers this treatment instead. They accurately assess the patient's mouth to design a custom-crafted apparatus which will provide more comfort and effectiveness.
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.
There are also other evaluations that need to be done in order to ensure that the device is made to proper fit. Another set of molds will be made and sent to a laboratory where the appliance will be created. When the patient returns he or she will receive the apparatus and the dentist will perform any adjustments that may be needed for fit and comfort.
Most anti-apnea devices are worn similar to a retainer, there may be some slight discomfort at first but this is normal and in most cases the patient gets used to it without problem. However, if there is any pain in the jaw, especially the temporomandibular joint, this must be pointed out to the dentist as another approach may be needed. People who suffer from TMJ are not good candidates for using these appliances. Any discomfort in the jaw needs to be closely watched, in order to prevent a problem from developing.
Over the course of wearing the apparatus, the jaw will gradually shift forward more, which is most notable after about six months of use. This occurs intentionally as to optimize the effectiveness of the appliance and the safety of its use.
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 can be quite effective and are a good option for patients who do not wish to rely on a CPAP machine each night. It's always a good idea to consult a dental professional when seeking this kind of treatment, in order to get the most suitable device for the patient. In some cases, changes in treatment are needed for a better outcome.
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