Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Temecula, CA
 Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common and potentially serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, or apneas, occur when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, causing the airway to become partially or completely blocked.
As a result, the brain briefly rouses the person from sleep to reopen the airway, often without the person's full awareness of the interruption. This cycle can happen many times throughout the night, leading to fragmented sleep and a host of related health issues.
While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment for sleep apnea, it is not suitable for everyone. Some patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable, noisy, or difficult to use consistently. For these individuals, oral appliance therapy offers a viable and effective alternative.
Understanding Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy involves the use of a custom-fitted device worn in the mouth during sleep to help maintain an open airway. These devices are typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or for those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
Oral appliances work by repositioning the jaw, tongue, or other structures in the mouth to prevent airway obstruction. They are often compared to mouth guards or retainers, but their function is specifically tailored to address sleep apnea.
Types of Oral Appliances
There are several types of oral appliances available for treating sleep apnea, each designed to address specific anatomical causes of airway obstruction. The most common types include mandibular advancement devices (MADs), tongue retaining devices, and tongue stabilizing devices.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Mandibular advancement devices are the most widely used type of oral appliance for sleep apnea. These devices work by gently advancing the lower jaw (mandible) forward, which helps keep the airway open during sleep. By repositioning the jaw, MADs prevent the collapse of the soft tissues in the throat, reducing the frequency and severity of apneas.
MADs are similar in appearance to a sports mouth guard or retainer. They are custom-made by a dentist or orthodontist to fit the patient's mouth comfortably. The device consists of upper and lower trays that fit over the teeth and are connected by hinges or bands that allow for the adjustment of the jaw's position. Some MADs are adjustable, allowing the dentist to fine-tune the jaw's position for optimal effectiveness.
Tongue Retaining Devices
Tongue retaining devices are another option for treating obstructive sleep apnea. These devices work by holding the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from collapsing back into the throat and obstructing the airway. Unlike MADs, tongue retaining devices do not reposition the jaw; instead, they focus solely on stabilizing the tongue.
A tongue retaining device typically consists of a soft plastic bulb that fits around the tongue, creating suction to hold the tongue in place. The device is custom-fitted to ensure comfort and effectiveness. This type of appliance is particularly useful for patients whose sleep apnea is primarily caused by the tongue obstructing the airway rather than the jaw's position.
Tongue Stabilizing Devices
Tongue stabilizing devices are similar in function to tongue retaining devices but are designed with a different mechanism. A tongue stabilizing device uses suction to hold the tongue in a forward position, preventing airway obstruction during sleep. Unlike a tongue retaining device, which may fit around the tongue, a tongue stabilizing device often relies on creating a vacuum seal to maintain the tongue's position.
These devices are especially helpful for patients who cannot use mandibular advancement devices due to dental or jaw issues. Tongue stabilizing devices are used either independently or in combination with other treatments to manage sleep apnea effectively.
Comparing Oral Appliances to CPAP Therapy
While CPAP therapy remains the standard treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, it is not without its drawbacks. CPAP machines work by delivering a continuous stream of air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, keeping the airway open. However, many patients find the mask uncomfortable, the noise disruptive, and the device cumbersome to use, leading to poor compliance.
Oral appliance therapy offers several advantages over CPAP therapy, particularly for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who struggle with CPAP adherence. Oral appliances are less intrusive, more portable, and often easier to adjust to than CPAP machines. Additionally, they do not require electricity or generate noise, making them ideal for use during travel or in shared sleeping environments.
However, it is important to note that oral appliances are not necessarily suitable for all patients. Those with severe obstructive sleep apnea may still require CPAP therapy or a combination of treatments to achieve effective results. A sleep study and consultation with a sleep specialist are essential in determining the best course of treatment.
The Process of Getting an Oral Appliance
The process of obtaining an oral appliance for sleep apnea typically involves several steps:
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Consultation and Evaluation: The first step is to consult with a dentist or orthodontist who specializes in sleep apnea treatment. They will review your medical history, evaluate your airway, and may recommend a sleep study if one has not already been conducted.
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Custom Fitting: If an oral appliance is deemed appropriate, Dr. Christopher Roncone will take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-fit device tailored to your mouth's unique structure. This ensures maximum comfort and effectiveness.
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Fitting and Adjustment: Once the appliance is ready, you will return to our office for a fitting. The device may need adjustment to ensure it fits properly and achieves the desired results. Some devices, such as mandibular advancement devices, may require periodic adjustments to maintain efficacy.
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Follow-up and Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the effectiveness of the oral appliance and make any necessary adjustments. We may also recommend periodic sleep studies to assess the treatment's ongoing success. |
Schedule with Your Temecula, CA Orthodontist Today!
Oral appliance therapy is an effective and less intrusive alternative to CPAP therapy for managing obstructive sleep apnea.
With a variety of devices available, it's essential to consult with a sleep specialist or dentist who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate course of action. With the right treatment, you can achieve better sleep, improved health, and a higher quality of life. Contact us at (951) 595-8291. |
