Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop temporarily.
Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds during sleep. People with OSA may experience morning headaches, daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and frequent nighttime urination. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Learn More About Health Risks of OSA
Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds during sleep. People with OSA may experience morning headaches, daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and frequent nighttime urination. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are the most common treatment for sleep apnea. A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. While effective, some people find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently.
Custom-made oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), are a comfortable and discreet alternative to CPAP machines. These devices gently shift the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open during sleep. Oral appliances are small, portable, and easy to care for.
OSA must be diagnosed by a doctor. Your primary care physician may provide a diagnosis or refer you to a sleep specialist. A sleep evaluation, which may involve an overnight sleep test at a sleep center or a home sleep apnea test, will be used to determine if you have OSA.
Oral appliances treat sleep apnea by stabilizing the jaw to keep the upper airway open, but they do not cure the condition. The FDA has not approved any dental device to cure sleep apnea. Oral appliances must be worn every night to effectively manage OSA symptoms.
Some people may experience discomfort or minor side effects when using an oral appliance, such as temporary jaw soreness, tooth sensitivity, or excessive salivation. These issues usually resolve with time and adjustments by your dentist. CPAP side effects may include nasal congestion, dry mouth, skin irritation from the mask, and feelings of claustrophobia.
Regular follow-up appointments with your sleep dentist are essential for ensuring your oral appliance remains effective and comfortable. Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments and monitor for potential side effects, such as tooth movement. If you experience any pain or discomfort with your appliance, contact your dentist. Consistent use and proper maintenance of your oral appliance or CPAP machine are crucial for successful sleep apnea treatment.
