Sleep apnea is a common nocturnal disorder characterized by irregular breathing patterns during sleep. Typically, the affected individual will stop breathing for short periods of time up to 30 times per hour. The condition is caused by the collapse of oral structures that, in turn, block the airways. Though a CPAP machine is often prescribed to treat the condition, it can also be treated using oral appliances that you can get from a Dentist in Heber Springs.
Tongue Repositioning Devices
Almost all of the oral appliances available to treat sleep apnea fall into one of two categories. The first category is tongue repositioning devices. These appliances pull the tongue forward using some type of suction. This prevents the organ from falling back into the airway during sleep, ensuring the person can breathe normally and sleep uninterrupted.
Jaw Repositioning Devices
The second category is jaw repositioning devices. These appliances use a variety of methods to push the entire lower jaw forward to keep the tongue in a rigid position to prevent it from blocking the airway. These devices also help stabilize other structures in the mouth that may interfere with breathing as well as keep the mouth from opening.
Benefits of Oral Appliances
The primary benefit of oral appliances is that they are easy to use. Unlike CPAP machines that may require training to learn how to use effectively, oral devices are typically self-explanatory. The small size of these oral devices allows them to easily be carried around during travel and, unlike using surgical options, this treatment is non-invasive and reversible.
Disadvantages of Oral Appliances
Some patients have experienced temporal mandibular joint pain after using these oral devices. Others have reported being unable to close their mouths fully for a period of time after removing the appliances. Long-term use of these dental devices may cause the teeth to shift in the mouth. Browse website for more details.
If you’re suffering from sleep apnea and think an oral appliance may be just what you need, talk to a Dentist in Heber Springs, like Jason T Bolding DDS, who can advise you on the best way to treat your condition.
