In our last blog, we explained how we use our home sleep study to diagnose the presence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and help you on the road toward treatment. Which is why today, your Olathe, KS, dentists will talk about the actual treatment process, which involves the use a comfortable and custom-fitted oral appliance.
The Warning Signs of OSA
First, let’s back up and discuss OSA in a little more detail. Basically, this common disorder cases sufferers to stop breathing for brief periods throughout the night, often dozens of times in a single hour. The cessation of breathing is caused by the collapse of soft tissue in the throat and mouth. While you may not remember this happening, it does interrupt your sleep cycle as your brain essentially wakes you to resume breathing. Warning signs vary, but often include chronic snoring, trouble waking up, waking in the night choking or struggling to breathe, dry mouth, headaches, daytime drowsiness, and even trouble staying focused on tasks or moodiness. Treatment is essential to prevent worsening daytime drowsiness, or negative impacts on your immune system and heart health.
Creating Your Custom Appliance
Instead of relying on a loud and uncomfortable CPAP machine and mask, we offer a comfortable and custom-fitted oral appliance. The device is created to fit your smile, and worn like a mouthguard as you sleep. While resting the guard actually moves the jaw forward slightly, enough to prevent the collapse of soft tissues and help you avoid cessation of breathing. You then wake feeling rested and alert, and begin to stop experiencing the common warning signs we discussed above. Better sleep means a better quality of life, a stronger immune system response, and better heart health too.
Better Sleep Habits
You can also help by making sure you have healthy sleep habits. In the two hours before bed, avoid large meals, excessive amounts of alcohol, caffeinated products, or vigorous exercise. We also suggest going to bed and waking up at the same times daily to establish a routine, and resting on your side instead of your back. Try to avoid looking at screens before you fall asleep too. If you have any questions about our diagnostic process or treatment options, or about seeking treatment for OSA, then please contact our team today to learn more. We want to make sure you get a good night’s rest!
Do You Need a Custom Appliance?
Our team knows how to design and craft a custom and comfortable solution to OSA. For more information on putting a stop to your sleeping difficulties, or to schedule a dental consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.