Our last blog focused on the home sleep studies and assessments we use to identify the presence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, once we identify the presence of this serious disorder, how do we help our patients rest easier? In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentist looks at how we treat OSA with a custom oral appliance.
The Common Signs of Trouble
Warning signs of OSA may include drowsiness during the day, irritability, headaches, dry mouth, difficulty staying focused on work or school work, and chronic snoring. The disorder is caused by the soft tissues in the throat and mouth collapsing and blocking airflow as they sleep. The lack of breathing causes the brain to wake you, leading to multiple interruptions to the sleep cycle. Factors behind the disorder could include large neck circumference, excessive alcohol consumption, sinus and allergy issues, deviated septum, resting on your back instead of your side, and obesity. With a home sleep study, we will assess your risk and offer treatment!
Creating an Oral Appliance
Often, we prescribe an oral appliance to address your issues. To ensure treatment with precision and accuracy, our team will design the appliance with detailed digital images and measurements, which provides a proper fit. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, instead we want to ensure you enjoy a comfortable treatment option that helps improve your ability to rest.
Treatment
At night, you will wear the appliance like a mouthguard. The device will then reposition the jaw, moving it forward slightly to help keep airways open and prevent the collapse of soft tissues. You breathe without interruption and avoid snoring and other uncomfortable symptoms. Along with this device, we may also talk about how to limit your risk with positive changes to your sleep habits. For example, you can rest on your side, avoid alcohol and caffeine before bed, and keep the bedroom dark, cool, and screen-free (TV, computer, and smartphone). Maintaining a regular sleep schedule could help as well, such as going to bed and waking up at the same times every day. If you have any questions about how we treat poor rest, or about we diagnose the issue, then contact our team today. Better rest means a stronger immune system, improved heart health, and a greater quality of life.
Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?
We want to offer a comfortable and convenient approach to addressing OSA and chronic snoring, so you rest without difficulty and maintain improved overall health. For more information on our approach to sleep treatment, or to schedule a dental consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-764-1018. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.