Do you frequently wake up exhausted or upset despite getting enough sleep? You could have sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder affecting millions of patients worldwide.
Mental health and general well-being are inextricably tied to good sleep. People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often suffer from debilitating fatigue, do not feel rested at the end of the day, and have poor work productivity.
Dental appliances have been shown to improve some symptoms of OSA. Keep reading to discover how a sleep apnea dental appliance can improve your sleep quality and overall health.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a kind of sleep disorder that interrupts a person’s breathing during sleep. This occurs when the muscles at the back of our throat fail to keep the airway open, obstructing oxygen flow to the lungs. The result is a sudden stop in breathing for a few seconds to minutes, followed by a gasp or snort as the sufferer wakes up briefly to start breathing again. This cycle can repeat itself throughout the night, leading to insufficient sleep and a range of associated health problems.
There are two types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most typical form of sleep apnea, accounting for more than 80% of all cases. It occurs when the throat muscles relax, blocking the airway and causing the patient to stop breathing for brief periods. Central sleep apnea (CSA), on the other hand, happens when your brain fails to deliver the proper signals to your muscles to control your breathing during sleep.
Both types of sleep apnea can have serious consequences for your health if left untreated, including stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other complications. However, several treatment options are available, including lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, surgery, and dental appliances.
What is a Sleep Apnea Dental Appliance?
A sleep apnea dental appliance is a custom-fitted oral device worn in the mouth during sleep. It is designed to keep the airway open by slowly pushing the lower jaw forward and preventing the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing and blocking the airway. The device is made of comfortable, durable materials, and it is similar in appearance to a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer and is typically prescribed by a sleep specialist.
There are several benefits to using a sleep apnea dental appliance over other sleep apnea treatments. Sleep apnea dental appliances are non-invasive and do not require surgical procedures or medication, making them a simple and safe option for most patients. It is portable and easy to use, as it can easily fit in a small travel case and does not require electricity or other equipment. This makes it an ideal choice for frequent travelers or those who want more freedom and flexibility in their sleep apnea treatment.
How Does it Work?
There are different types of sleep apnea dental appliances, but they all work in a similar way. The device is typically made of the lower ad upper tray that fits over the teeth and is held together by adjustable connectors. The appliance fits snugly over the teeth and repositions the jaw, tongue, and soft palate to prevent the upper airway from collapsing.
The dental device works by gently moving the lower jaw forward, creating more space in the back of the throat and preventing blockage. When the patient inhales, air can then flow freely through the airway, reducing the risk of snoring and apnea events.
Success Rate of Dental Appliance for Sleep Apnea
Studies have shown that dental appliances can effectively treat patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Based on a meta-analysis by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, dental appliances have an overall success rate of 53%. However, success rates vary depending on the particular appliance used and the severity of the sleep apnea case. Some studies have shown success rates as high as 90% for mild cases and 80% for moderate cases. Factors such as age, BMI, and the severity of sleep apnea can all impact the effectiveness of oral appliances in treating sleep apnea.
To increase the success of dental appliances as a treatment for sleep apnea, it’s important to work with a qualified sleep specialist and skilled dental professional. A sleep specialist can accurately diagnose sleep apnea and recommend the appropriate treatment options. At the same time, a dentist with specialized training in oral appliances can customize a device that best fits the patient’s unique needs.
Pros and Cons of Sleep Apnea Dental Appliance
Many people who suffer from sleep apnea turn to dental appliances as a way to treat the condition. Explore the pros and cons of sleep apnea dental appliances to help you decide whether it is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Dental appliances offer a non-invasive treatment option for sleep apnea sufferers who want to avoid surgery or using a CPAP machine.
- They are lightweight and easy to wear. You simply insert the appliance into your mouth before going to sleep. It does not require an extra amount of time and effort.
- Sleep apnea dental appliances are small and easy to pack. If you travel frequently, this option is more convenient than other treatments.
- They are less expensive than surgery or using a CPAP machine. They are a more affordable option for people looking for sleep apnea treatment.
- Dental appliances do not produce noise, unlike CPAP machines, which can disrupt sleep for the patient and their bed partner.
- Many users find dental appliances more comfortable to wear compared to CPAP masks, as they are smaller, less bulky, and do not require the use of tubes and a machine.
Cons
- Dental appliances may not be effective for everyone. Finding the right fit for each patient may take some time, and some people may not receive the same benefits as others.
- Prolonged use of dental appliances may cause dental problems, such as tooth movement, changes in bite, or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain.
- Dental appliances require proper cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup. This can be time-consuming and requires a lot of effort.
- Insurance coverage for dental appliances may be limited or not covered at all. This can burden patients who need the treatment but cannot afford it.
- It may take some time for users to get used to wearing the dental appliance, and they may initially experience discomfort, excessive salivation, or difficulty speaking.
Types of Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea
There are several types of dental appliances designed to treat sleep apnea. These oral devices are often used to treat mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea by repositioning the jaw or tongue to help maintain an open airway during sleep. Here are some common types of dental appliances for sleep apnea:
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
These are the most commonly used dental appliances for sleep apnea treatment. MADs resemble mouth guards used in sports and work by repositioning the lower jaw (mandible) forward. This forward movement helps to open the airway by increasing the space in the airway and reducing the likelihood of airway collapse.
Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs)
TSDs are another type of dental appliance used to treat sleep apnea. They work by holding the tongue forward so that it does not obstruct the airway during sleep. TSDs consist of a small, flexible device that fits inside the mouth, like a pacifier, and has a protruding bulb that holds the tongue forward. TSDs are relatively easy to use, but they may not be as effective as MADs for some patients.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
TRDs are used to hold the tongue forward to prevent it from collapsing to the back of the throat and blocking the airway. These devices typically use a suction bulb that attaches to the tongue and keeps it in place.
Combination Devices
These dental appliances combine the features of both MADs and TRDs to provide a more comprehensive treatment approach. They work by advancing the mandible and holding the tongue in place to maintain an open airway during sleep.
Palatal Expansion Devices (PEDs)
PEDs are dental appliances that expand the palate’s size to increase airflow during sleep. The device has an acrylic shield that fits over the upper teeth and palate and is secured with wires and clasps. PEDs are typically used for patients with narrow palates or who have trouble breathing through their noses during sleep.
Soft Palate Lifter
This device works by lifting the soft palate and uvula, preventing them from collapsing into the throat and causing an obstruction. The soft palate lifter is less commonly used than MADs and TRDs but can be an option for some patients.
How Long Does an Oral Appliance Treatment for Sleep Apnea Last?
Oral appliance treatment for sleep apnea is typically an ongoing process that lasts as long as the patient continues to experience sleep apnea symptoms or requires intervention to maintain an open airway during sleep. The treatment aims to manage and alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, but it may not permanently cure the condition.
Long-term success with oral appliance therapy requires consistently using the device every night while sleeping. Regular follow-up visits with your dental professional or sleep specialist are essential to monitor treatment progress, make necessary adjustments to the device, and ensure its effectiveness in managing sleep apnea symptoms.
How Much Do Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea Cost?
On average, custom-made oral appliances for sleep apnea can cost between $1,800 and $3,500. The cost of MADs can range from $1,500 to $3,000, while TRDs can cost between $500 to $1,500. However, insurance might cover part or all of the cost of the appliance, depending on your policy.
The severity of your sleep apnea can also affect the cost of oral appliances. The more severe your apnea is, the more complex your oral device may need to be, which can increase the cost. Additionally, where you live can also affect the cost of oral appliances. Prices may vary depending on the local cost of living and average prices for healthcare services in your area.
Can a Dentist Help with Sleep Apnea?
A dentist can help with sleep apnea, particularly in cases of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can evaluate, recommend, fit, and adjust oral appliances designed to treat sleep apnea. These dental professionals have knowledge of the oral structures and their relationship to airway function and can collaborate with sleep apnea specialists to develop an effective treatment plan.
Wake Up Refreshed with Garza DDS’s Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Are you tired of waking up exhausted, like you didn’t get any sleep at all? Sleep apnea could be the culprit, but Garza DDS has the solution. Our sleep apnea treatment options will help you wake up refreshed and energized to take on the day.
Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of the rest you need to live your best life. Dr. Garza will work with you, ensuring you get the best and latest treatment option. Contact Garza DDS today to learn more about your sleep apnea treatment plan and start waking up rejuvenated.