When you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), then you may need treatment. Instead of a loud and uncomfortable CPAP machine, our team could create a custom and cozy oral appliance. In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentists will explain how we create and employ a sleep appliance to help you rest with ease once again.
The Dangers of Untreated OSA
OSA actually interrupts your sleep cycle, sometimes hundreds of times a night, as the collapse of soft tissues in your throat and mouth make you stop breathing until the brain wakes you. Patients with the disorder rarely remember waking every time, but they may occasionally notice waking suddenly gasping for air or choking. Over time, this strains the immune and cardiovascular systems, so you’re more likely to become sick, and could be more susceptible to heart disease and high blood pressure, or even stroke and heart attack. When you experience wanting signs, such as chronic snoring, daytime drowsiness, waking suddenly struggling to catch your breath, or moodiness, you should let us know right away.
Creating Your Oral Appliance
Once we diagnose and assess your OSA, we will take detailed digital images and measurements of your smile and jaw. We combine them to create a 3D model, one that allows us to design and fabricate an oral appliance. The device will look like a mouthguard and be worn as you sleep at night. The device then moves the jaw forward to prevent the collapse of soft issues in the back of the mouth and in your throat. You then breathe without interruption and feel more rested and alert the next day. The mouthguard is easy to clean and use!
Treatment and Better Sleep Habits
Along with your oral appliance, we could recommend a few changes to your daily habits to help. For example, be sure you rest on your side, not your back. Avoid large meals, caffeine, excessive amounts of alcohol, and vigorous activity in the two hours before bed. Try to maintain a sleep schedule too, which means going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. You also benefit from keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and free of screens (TV, computer, smartphone).
If you have any questions about diagnosing and treating your OSA, then contact our team today to schedule a consultation. We want to help you enjoy a better night’s rest and a better quality of life too!
Ready for a Custom Treatment Option?
Our team would like to help you sleep easily with our custom appliance technology. Schedule an appointment today and learn more about sleep dentistry. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.