Different Oral Appliances

Among the available treatments for sleep apnea are dental appliances. Some patients have good results with these treatments and they are less intrusive than nCPAP devices, which are still the most prevalent treatment. They are, of course, far preferable to surgery for most individuals and, if the sleep apnea being treated is not severe, they may offer the most convenient method of obtaining relief. These devices are prescribed by a sleep physician. They are fitted by a dentist. When they are used properly, they help to compensate for deformities in the structure of the back of the throat and the collapse of soft tissue into the airway during sleep.

The first type of device is a tongue retainer. These devices keep the tongue forward during sleep. When our bodies relax and fall asleep, all of the muscles, including those of the soft palate and the back of the throat, relax. By keeping the tongue forward, this device can eliminate the potential for it to obstruct the airway. These devices are also used to treat snoring, which can be a symptom of sleep apnea or an issue all on its own.

The second type of common appliance actually pulls the mandible forward. A dentist fits and adjusts this device so that it offers the optimal benefit. Like the tongue retainer, this physically prevents the soft tissue at the back of the throat from obstructing the airway. If it seems like a familiar idea, you may have training in CPR. Like some of the techniques associated with that life-saving procedure, these dental appliances ensure that the airway is always unobstructed. They tend to be used to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea, but more severe cases may require nCPAP devices or even surgery to treat effectively. If the appliances work, however, they have significant advantages.

nCPAP devices require that the user wear a mask while they sleep. This can be intolerable to some patients, though the device may provide effective relief. Additionally, the dental appliances are easily transportable and easily maintained. Some of those who suffer from sleep apnea find that these devices have a convenience factor that makes them more desirable than nCPAP devices. Provided that the appliance provides effective treatment for their sleep apnea, they may be the most desirable treatment. The other commonly used treatment is surgery, which seeks to correct the same problem in a different way.

The surgeries used to treat apnea generally involve the removal of excess tissues at the back of the throat. This can also correct structural abnormalities in this area. These surgeries, however, are usually used on young people. They often involve the removal of the tonsils or the adenoids, both of which can obstruct the airway. The most radical of surgeries involves cutting a hole in the trachea. The hole is plugged during the day to allow normal function of the voice and breathing. The dental appliances offer a less radical treatment, of course, and they may provide relief if you suffer this condition.

To learn more about Sleep Apnea treatments and to find out if they are right for you, contact Smile Studio LA at 818-788-1352 today for a free consultation!