We’ve discussed how a custom oral appliance can bring relief for people suffering from issues like TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). But did you know this can also help combat sleep apnea, so you can rest easy again? In today’s blog, your Sunny Smiles team talks about how oral appliance therapy can address sleep apnea symptoms!
The Causes of Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea means that while you rest at night, your breathing is interrupted by the collapse of soft tissues in the throat and the back of your mouth. This cuts off airflow, so you stop breathing until the brain registers the drop in oxygen and wakes you. This takes seconds you may not recall it happening, but your REM sleep could be interrupted hundreds of times in a single night. Snoring can also occur, as air is forced through these obstructed airways and creates a loud sound in the process.
Warning Signs and Complications
You may wake in the ring with dry mouth, feel exhausted during the day, and trouble focusing on tasks. You could feel moody and have issues with memory too. At night, you could snore and wake suddenly gasping for air or choking. Without treatment, this could leave you exhausted and impact your social life and your work performance. Eventually, this could strain the immune system so more frequent illness is possible. Poor sleep is also linked to issues like dementia, and the stress in your cardiovascular system could mean higher blood pressure, heart disease, and even a greater risk of stroke and heart attack. Don’t let your overall health suffer, talk to our team about treatment options today.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Our team will begin by taking detailed digital images and measurements of your smile from multiple angles, and in a dental lab use them to design and craft an oral appliance that fits comfortably and helps shift your jaw and tongue forward to prevent the collapse of soft tissues while you sleep. This is worn at night, and is easy to clean and store. The appliance can travel with you too! You then breathe without interruption and feel more rested and alert the next day. You can also help with a good sleep schedule, lack of caffeine or excessive alcohol before bed, and a dark and cool bedroom. Resting on your side instead of your back is helpful too!
If you have any questions about how we diagnose and treat issues like sleep apnea, or about our custom oral appliances, then contact our team today.
Enjoy a Good Night’s Rest Again!
We want you to rest east and feel more alert and active the next day. Call Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, at 915.759. 7000 to schedule an appointment.