Treat Sleep Apnea and Prevent Snoring with Custom Mouthguards
Sleep apnea and snoring are more than just nuisances that disrupt sleep. Left untreated, they can lead to serious health risks, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and fatigue. Fortunately, a custom mouthguard can be an effective solution for both sleep apnea treatment and snoring prevention, offering patients a non-invasive alternative to other treatments.
What Is Sleep Apnea and Why Does Snoring Matter?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. There are two types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, and central sleep apnea (CSA), which occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Snoring is often the most noticeable symptom of sleep apnea, particularly in cases of OSA. While not all people who snore have sleep apnea, frequent, loud snoring can indicate an airway obstruction. Sleep apnea can lead to dangerous complications if left untreated, such as heart problems, daytime fatigue, and even an increased risk of stroke.
How Custom Mouthguards Work for Sleep Apnea and Snoring
A sleep apnea mouthguard is an oral appliance designed to help people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Here’s how it works:
- Repositions the Jaw: The mouthguard repositions the lower jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open by preventing the tissues in the throat from collapsing during sleep.
- Custom Fit for Comfort: Unlike over-the-counter options, a custom mouthguard is made to fit your mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
- Prevents Snoring: Custom mouthguards also help prevent snoring by keeping the airway open, giving the patient and the partner a quieter night’s sleep.
One of the most common types of mouthguards used in treating sleep apnea and snoring is the Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD). This device works by gently shifting the lower jaw (mandible) forward, which helps keep the airway open throughout the night. The MAD reduces or eliminates snoring by keeping the soft tissues in the throat from collapsing. It is a popular choice for people seeking a non-invasive treatment for snoring. It is custom-fitted by a sleep apnea dentist to ensure comfort and maximum effectiveness.
These appliances are simple to use and easy to care for and are a less intrusive treatment option than a CPAP machine. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, oral appliances are recommended for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea when CPAP is not a good fit for the patient’s lifestyle. If you and your doctor decide oral appliance therapy is the best treatment option, your doctor will write you a prescription for a custom-made oral appliance.
Benefits of Using a Custom Mouthguard for Sleep Apnea Treatment
For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom mouthguard offers several advantages:
- Non-Invasive Solution: Unlike CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, which require a mask and hose to force air into the lungs, mouthguards are a simple oral device that works without additional equipment.
- Improved Comfort and Compliance: Many patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable and hard to sleep with. Mouthguards are small, portable, and custom-fitted for comfort, making it easier to stick with the treatment.
- Effectiveness for Snoring: Studies have shown that oral appliances can effectively reduce snoring and sleep apnea episodes. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine has found that oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for snoring and OSA.
- Better Sleep Quality: By preventing snoring and reducing sleep apnea episodes, mouthguards help improve sleep quality, leading to better daytime functioning and overall health.
The Role of a Sleep Apnea Dentist
Choosing the proper treatment begins with visiting a qualified sleep apnea dentist. Here’s why:
- Expert Fitting: A sleep apnea dentist specializes in creating and fitting custom mouthguards, ensuring the device is tailored to your needs. Proper fit is key to the effectiveness of the treatment.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Your dentist will monitor your progress, adjusting the appliance as needed to maximize its effectiveness. Over time, your mouthguard may need modifications to continue providing the best results.
- Comprehensive Care: A sleep apnea dentist can work with your medical team to create a comprehensive treatment plan, integrating oral appliance therapy with other treatments like weight management or lifestyle changes.
Is a Custom Mouthguard Right for You?
While CPAP therapy is the standard for severe sleep apnea, patients with mild to moderate cases can benefit greatly from custom mouthguards. Here are some signs it might be the right choice for you:
- You have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
- You find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use.
- You are looking for a treatment option that also helps with snoring.
If any of these apply, a custom mouthguard might be an excellent option for improving your sleep quality and overall health. Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea dentist to explore your options.
Custom mouthguards offer a comfortable, effective sleep apnea treatment and snoring prevention solution. By visiting a sleep apnea dentist and using a custom-fitted device, you can enjoy better sleep and reduce your risk of serious health issues. Don’t wait—take control of your sleep health by contacting The Dental Family today to discuss your treatment options.
