Sleep Apnea and Snoring Appliances

Sleep Apnea and Snoring Appliances

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person stops breathing, has infrequent or shallow breathing repeatedly throughout the night disrupting sleep. It can have serious effects including daytime sleepiness, impaired alertness, weight gain and higher risk of developing other health problems. It can ultimately be life threatening. Read more here.

Non-Obstructed Airway

Obstructed Airway

In obstructive sleep apnea, the soft tissue of the upper airway can fall back and block respiration. Older people who have less muscle tone in this area or excess tissue caused by obesity are especially at risk. Smoking is also a risk factor.

CPAP is the gold standard treatment for sleep apnea, but if this therapy is not an option, your physician may recommend an oral appliance.

Most oral appliances work by positioning the lower jaw forward. This is also the first step in CPR to open the airway. By pulling the jaw slightly forward, the soft tissues of the upper airway are lifted anteriorly, allowing the passage of air.

It is best to consult your physician if you suspect you may be suffering from sleep apnea. They may recommend a sleep study to determine the presence and severity of the disease.

There are many options available in oral sleep apnea and snoring appliances. Let us know if you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, have been told you snore, or if you are curious whether an oral appliance may benefit you.