In our previous blog, we looked at the process of diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). But once we uncover the presence of this serious sleep disorder, how to we treat the problem? In today’s blog, we’re looking at the custom-made sleep appliances we create to help our Olathe, KS, patients rest easy! How do these custom devices help stop OSA? Will they be comfortable?
Signs of Sleep Apnea
How do you know if you suffer from OSA? Since each apneic episode involves the cessation of breathing due to airway obstruction, and the brain waking you, sufferers tend to feel exhausted even if they believe they slept the night before. Waking suddenly choking or gasping for air also indicates trouble, as well as dry mouth, chronic snoring, headaches, and moodiness. You may also have trouble concentrating on tasks at work or school. If one or more of these potential warning signs sounds familiar, then please don’t hesitate to give our team a call and discuss our home sleep test.
Creating Your Appliance
If our home sleep test uncovers sleep apnea, then we will recommend treatment to help you rest easier. In many cases, this involves wearing a device that looks similar to a nightguard. To ensure a comfortable fit and accurate treatment, we will take digital images of your smile, which we use to create a 3D digital impression. The impression enables our team to design and create a custom-made sleep device to help address OSA.
Treating OSA
The patient then wears the completed sleep appliance at night. The device repositions the jaw to help keep airways open and prevent pressure on the jaw joints, reducing the risk of sleep apnea, as well as TMJ disorder and bruxism in some cases. The device provides a comfortable alternative to other common sleep apnea treatments, such as the CPAP machine. We may also suggest changes to your bedtime routine, such as avoiding alcohol, caffeine, large meals, and vigorous exercise in the two hours before bed. A regular sleep schedule, which involves going to bed and waking at the same times daily, helps improve your ability to rest. You may also consider sleeping on your side instead of your back, and losing weight, as obesity often impacts risk. If you have any questions about identifying and treating sleep disorders, then contact our team today. Let’s work together to help you rest easy!
Do You Need a Sleep Appliance?
Our team will help you rest better with a custom-made oral appliance. To schedule a consultation and discuss our treatment options for OSA, call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Edgerton, Shawnee, Johnson County, and all surrounding communities.