Snoring and sleep apnea are two related issues that can leave a patient, and his/her significant other, sleep deprived. In order to maintain optimal health, you need your rest. Fortunately, we can perform a sleep assessment and offer treatment for OSA and snoring related issues. Do you need a sleep appliance to combat your sleep apnea? How does the device work?
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Appliances
Question: Will the appliance be comfortable?
Answer: Yes. The device will be custom-fitted for a comfortable fit and for accurate treatment.
Question: Does this address both snoring and sleep apnea?
Answer: Yes. Snoring occurs when breathing is partially obstructed by collapsed soft tissues in the throat and mouth. Sleep apnea happens when airflow stops completely, causing the patient to be woken up in order to breathe and often interrupting sleep hundreds of times per night. The appliance addresses both snoring and sleep apnea by ensuring your airways remain unobstructed during sleep.
Question: How does this help me sleep better?
Answer: The sleep appliance works by moving the jaw forward slightly, just enough to keep soft tissue from blocking airflow. The patient then breathes easily and doesn’t snore or face multiple sleep interruptions every night.
Question: How do I know if I need an appliance?
Answer: There are a number of potential warning signs of sleep apnea. During the day you may notice exhaustion, moodiness, or difficulty concentrating during the day. You may also notice periods of waking up at night gasping for air or choking. Don’t ignore these potential warning signs, instead see your dentist for a thorough diagnosis and to find out if you need treatment. We will assess the cause and severity of your sleep issues and may recommend an oral appliance to address it. If you have any questions about our sleep appliances, then please contact our office today.