Sleep apnea is a medical condition that a lot of people suffer from. Dental specialists that focus on dental sleep medicine are able to manage and treat sleep apnea through a variety of different methods. Each method is customized to fit the patient’s needs, but some of the most popular methods include the use of oral appliances.
Want to learn more about sleep apnea treatment through dental sleep medicine? In this article, we discuss what dental sleep medicine is, as well as how sleep apnea treatment can be administered. This information is important and can be especially helpful to patients who are suffering from sleep apnea.
Outlined below is some important information regarding dental sleep medicine and how sleep apnea can be treated through it. Keep reading to find out more!
Dental sleep medicine is a field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, managing and treating obstructive sleep apnea. Within dental sleep medicine, the dental specialists focus on the use of oral appliances to treat the many symptoms that come along with sleep apnea.
Some of the common problems that patients experience when dealing with sleep apnea is snoring, difficulty breathing and disruptive sleeping patterns. With the help of different oral appliances, these symptoms can be remedied and long-term, even treated.
Specialists that study and work in dental sleep medicine are traditionally dentists who have gone on to train further in the field of treating sleeping disorders through dental medicine. A lot of dental sleep specialists are also certified general dentists
Within dental sleep medicine, the main focus of sleep apnea treatment is through the use of oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances vary depending on the patient’s needs but the two most common types are tongue-retaining devices and mandibular advancement devices. Both oral appliances are placed within the mouth prior to sleeping, and their goals are quite similar in the sense that they aim to prevent the airway from becoming obstructed.
Tongue-retaining devices: These oral appliances for treating sleep apnea are used less frequently than mandibular advancement devices. They look very similar to a pacifier, but they have a hole in the middle where the tongue is to be placed. The patient’s tongue rests in the hole throughout the night, which allows for a more continuous amount of airflow to reach the back of the throat.
Mandibular advancement devices: The MADs are used quite commonly within dental sleep medicine. They are custom-made appliances that look very similar to mouthguards used in sporting events. With upper and lower pieces, the MAD snaps over each arch of teeth. Small metal hinges on either end keep the lower jaw in a forward position. This forward position helps keep the airway open, which prevents obstruction.
Questions and concerns regarding dental sleep medicine and how it can be used to treat sleep apnea should be addressed by a dental professional. Reach out to our office today so that we can help you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hudsonfamilydentalgj.com or call Hudson Family Dental at (970) 305-8727 for an appointment in our Grand Junction office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sleep Apnea in Grand Junction, CO.
Sleep apnea is a very common problem that a lot of people suffer from. The disorder can be very dangerous to one's health, however with the help of a dentist the signs can be identified and the appropriate steps can be taken to reduce symptoms.It may be surprising to learn that a dentist plays a…
Are you a smoker and wondering how smoking affects your dental health? For almost half a century, we have been warned by the Surgeon General that smoking is bad for our health. One thing that has not been given the attention it warrants is the fact that smoking is also bad for your dental health…
Preventive dentistry is important in maintaining oral health. Visits in this field of dentistry involve treatment and dental education. These appointments aim to prevent gum disease, cavities, and enamel wear. They result in an attractive smile and healthy teeth. If you want to know more about vital preventive dentistry visits, here are the details.Preventing the…
You may be considering implant supported dentures already. Part of considering this option is to know how long these teeth replacements will last. These dentures are an investment. Taking care of them is an order. If you want to know how to extend the life of your implant supported dentures, here are the details.This applies…
Seeing the dentist at least twice a year can help lengthen the life span of…
Looking for further information on dental crowns? Talking with a general dentist is the best…
Your dentist can help you get started with your home teeth bleaching experience.
Being unhappy with the appearance of your smile can also lead to others making assumptions…
Dentures help some people regain their smiles without surgery.
Patients considering dental crowns may have concerns regarding the recovery period following the procedure.
