How Can My Dentist Help My Sleep Apnea?

Many people are surprised to learn that a dentist can treat sleep apnea, but in fact, they are one of the best specialists to do so. Sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects millions of people each night. With the help of a dentist, this disorder can be treated so sleeping through the night is achievable. 

In this article, we discuss how a dentist can treat sleep apnea. There are a few different ways that a dentist can go about treatment, but they are all known to be effective. If you are struggling from sleep apnea, then you may find this information to be helpful.

How a dentist treats sleep apnea

The following methods of treatment are all offered by a dentist. Read on to find out more.

Mouthguards or oral appliance therapy

First and foremost, a dentist will try to use a mouthguard to treat sleep apnea. The dentist can take impressions of a person’s mouth in order to custom-create a mouthguard. The impressions will be sent off to a dental lab, where the mouthguard will be created.

Using a mouthguard to treat sleep apnea has been known to bring relief. The mouthguard will position the mouth during the night in a way that allows for continuous breathing. The goal of the mouthguard is for the airway to be kept open so that a collapse does not take place. Dentists also refer to these mouthguards as mandibular advancement devices.

CPAP machines

Another treatment option that dentists recommend for sleep apnea is the CPAP machine, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure. This is a machine that involves a mask that fits over a person’s nose or mouth or both, depending on the severity.

There are three main parts to a CPAP machine that helps treat the sleep apnea. The mask is secured in place with straps and is to be worn while sleeping. There is a motor that creates continuous positive airflow. The last part is a tube that connects the mask to the motor so the air is provided to the facial area.

The CPAP machine is recommended by dentists because it produces positive air to the airway, which makes it difficult for collapsing to take place. However, some people do find it harder to sleep with the mask on.

Surgery

In some situations, when sleep apnea is severe, a dentist may explore surgical options for treatment. Snoring is a common result of sleep apnea, which can be treated through surgery as well.

Contact us today

Are you suffering from sleep apnea? A dentist may be able to help you find relief. If you have questions about sleep apnea treatment, then reach out to our office today. Our team of professionals is readily available to help you get a better night's sleep. Give us a call or stop by our office! We are here to help you out!

Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 272-4110 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.

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