People with sleep apnea have trouble getting enough oxygen into their lungs at night. Their soft palate collapses at night, which prevents adequate breathing. Fortunately, treatments are available to help people breathe while they sleep. Oral appliance therapy is a reliable dental treatment for sleep apnea. Here are five reasons to seek sleep apnea oral appliance therapy to resolve your sleep apnea symptoms:

1. Keep yourself safe while you sleep.

Sleep apnea can be dangerous if left untreated. If you stop breathing during the night, you may suffocate or cause yourself brain damage. Oral appliances keep your airways open at night. The most common type of oral appliance is a mandibular advancement device designed to gently push your upper mandible forward, expanding the area at the back of your throat so air can flow freely.

2. Try an inexpensive treatment first.

CPAP machines are sometimes used to treat sleep apnea, but these devices are a significant financial investment. Most patients prefer to try inexpensive treatments first. Oral appliance therapy is highly effective for many people, and oral appliances are much less expensive than CPAP machines.

3. Get treatment from your current dentist.

Some people are hesitant to get treatment for their sleep apnea because they don't like the idea of seeing a specialist. Fortunately, general dentists can offer sleep apnea treatment. Oral appliances used to treat sleep apnea must be made in professional labs. Your dentist can fit you for an oral appliance in their office. Once your appliance is ready, you can return to your dentist's office to try it on.

4. Use your oral appliance anywhere.

Oral appliances offer another advantage when compared with CPAP machines. Unlike CPAP machines, which are bulky and require a source of electricity, oral appliances are highly portable. You can store your oral appliance in a case that is small enough to slip into a purse or bag. Oral appliance therapy can be used anywhere you would normally sleep, whether that's your bed at home or a hotel while traveling.

5. Stop grinding your teeth at night.

Oral appliances, like mandibular advancement devices, are first and foremost used to keep your airways open while you sleep. However, they can offer secondary benefits as well. It's common for people to grind their teeth at night, which can wear down your precious tooth enamel over time. Oral appliances function as mouthguards that will also protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism.

Share