Sleep apnea is a common but serious disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often due to the airway collapsing or becoming blocked. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can significantly impact a person’s health, energy levels, and quality of life if left untreated. While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are often prescribed, they’re not always well-tolerated. For those seeking a more comfortable and discreet alternative, oral appliance therapy has emerged as an effective solution.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy involves the use of a custom-fitted device worn in the mouth during sleep, similar in appearance to a mouthguard or retainer. These devices are designed to keep the airway open by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue forward. This simple mechanical adjustment helps to prevent the airway from collapsing and allows for normal breathing throughout the night. The appliances are typically prescribed and fitted by a dentist with specialized training in sleep medicine.
Comfort and Convenience
One of the most notable advantages of oral appliance therapy is its comfort and ease of use compared to CPAP machines. CPAP therapy requires wearing a mask connected to a machine that pumps air into the airway. While effective, many patients find the setup cumbersome and uncomfortable, leading to poor compliance. In contrast, oral appliances are small, silent, and portable, making them ideal for travel and everyday use. They do not require electricity, tubing, or frequent maintenance, which contributes to higher patient satisfaction and consistency in use.
Improved Sleep Quality and Daily Functioning
By preventing airway obstruction, oral appliance therapy could help restore uninterrupted sleep. Patients often report feeling more refreshed in the morning, with noticeable improvements in energy, concentration, and mood. Better sleep often leads to better overall health and could significantly enhance performance at work, school, or home. In many cases, those suffering from daytime fatigue or morning headaches due to untreated sleep apnea see these symptoms diminish or disappear after starting therapy.
Health Benefits Beyond Better Sleep
Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a higher risk of serious health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and depression. By effectively managing sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy often contributes to long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health. For patients with mild to moderate OSA or those who cannot tolerate CPAP, oral appliances offer a clinically proven way to reduce apnea-related health risks.
Customized Treatment for Individual Needs
Another benefit of oral appliance therapy is the personalized nature of treatment. Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine create customized devices tailored to each patient’s mouth and bite pattern. This better ensures a precise fit that maximizes comfort and effectiveness. Over time, follow-up visits allow for adjustments to fine-tune the appliance, further improving outcomes. This level of customization is especially helpful for individuals who struggle with one-size-fits-all solutions like standard CPAP masks.
A Collaborative Approach to Sleep Health
Oral appliance therapy often involves a collaborative relationship between sleep physicians and dental professionals. After a sleep study confirms the diagnosis of OSA, a dentist trained in oral appliance therapy will work closely with the medical team to ensure the chosen device is appropriate and effective. This multidisciplinary approach better ensures patients receive the highest quality of care and that progress is monitored and adjusted as needed.
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?
Not everyone with sleep apnea is a candidate for oral appliance therapy. However, it is particularly well-suited for patients with mild to moderate OSA or for those who cannot tolerate or choose not to use CPAP. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea or are struggling with your current treatment, speaking with your physician or a sleep-trained dentist is an important step toward finding a more comfortable and sustainable solution.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Hampton Roads, VA
At Coastal Sleep & TMJ, we understand the connection between your oral health and overall health. Sleep disorders can cause dry mouth, grinding, and other dental complications. If you suffer with sleep apnea and struggle with a CPAP machine, oral appliance therapy may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.