Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person's breathing becomes very shallow or ceases altogether for several seconds periodically during sleep. The use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)machine is effective for some, but is not the only alternative. Dental appliances for sleep apnea can also help correct this condition and encourage normal breathing patterns in patients.
These appliances come in different shapes and sizes and function in various ways. Some are designed to secure the tongue in a forward position, while others influence the position of the lower jaw. There are ready-to-wear versions of these which can be purchased online, but it is better to go to a dentist or orthodontist who offers this treatment instead. They accurately assess the patient's mouth to design a custom-crafted apparatus which will provide more comfort and effectiveness.
At the dental office, plaster molds of the patient's upper and lower teeth will be cast. These will be used for designing a custom-fitted device which is made to fit the exact dimensions of the patient's mouth. By using a custom-made appliance, it should not only be more comfortable, but also more effective.
Other assessment measures may also be needed in order to design a properly fitting device for the patient. A second set of impressions will be taken and sent to a laboratory where they will be used in the manufacture of the appliance itself. Once the device is completed, the patient will need to try it on to see if any adjustments will be needed.
Most anti-apnea devices are worn similar to a retainer, there may be some slight discomfort at first but this is normal and in most cases the patient gets used to it without problem. However, if there is any pain in the jaw, especially the temporomandibular joint, this must be pointed out to the dentist as another approach may be needed. People who suffer from TMJ are not good candidates for using these appliances. Any discomfort in the jaw needs to be closely watched, in order to prevent a problem from developing.
Over the course of wearing the apparatus, the jaw will gradually shift forward more, which is most notable after about six months of use. This occurs intentionally as to optimize the effectiveness of the appliance and the safety of its use.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea are a good solution for many people who do not wish to use a CPAP machine. It is important to make sure the device fits and works right and only obtain it through the direction of a dental care provider who is familiar with this area of treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to make changes in order to produce better results.
These appliances come in different shapes and sizes and function in various ways. Some are designed to secure the tongue in a forward position, while others influence the position of the lower jaw. There are ready-to-wear versions of these which can be purchased online, but it is better to go to a dentist or orthodontist who offers this treatment instead. They accurately assess the patient's mouth to design a custom-crafted apparatus which will provide more comfort and effectiveness.
At the dental office, plaster molds of the patient's upper and lower teeth will be cast. These will be used for designing a custom-fitted device which is made to fit the exact dimensions of the patient's mouth. By using a custom-made appliance, it should not only be more comfortable, but also more effective.
Other assessment measures may also be needed in order to design a properly fitting device for the patient. A second set of impressions will be taken and sent to a laboratory where they will be used in the manufacture of the appliance itself. Once the device is completed, the patient will need to try it on to see if any adjustments will be needed.
Most anti-apnea devices are worn similar to a retainer, there may be some slight discomfort at first but this is normal and in most cases the patient gets used to it without problem. However, if there is any pain in the jaw, especially the temporomandibular joint, this must be pointed out to the dentist as another approach may be needed. People who suffer from TMJ are not good candidates for using these appliances. Any discomfort in the jaw needs to be closely watched, in order to prevent a problem from developing.
Over the course of wearing the apparatus, the jaw will gradually shift forward more, which is most notable after about six months of use. This occurs intentionally as to optimize the effectiveness of the appliance and the safety of its use.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea are a good solution for many people who do not wish to use a CPAP machine. It is important to make sure the device fits and works right and only obtain it through the direction of a dental care provider who is familiar with this area of treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to make changes in order to produce better results.
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