How oral appliance therapy helps with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
With many medical conditions, there are often several ways to address a problem. The same applies to Red Hill, Victoria patients that have been diagnosed with a sleeping disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea. While using a CPAP machine is effective at maintaining open airways, it can also be cumbersome and uncomfortable for patients–leaving many to avoid using them and allowing the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea to return. At Red Hill Dental Practice, our team encourages patients to talk to them about the benefits of oral appliance therapy as an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and its symptoms.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Our team describes obstructive sleep apnea as sleep-disordered breathing, sometimes known by the acronym OSA. The condition occurs due to a blockage in the airways, including the throat, nose, and mouth, that causes a patient to stop breathing. They will awaken, only to fall asleep and repeat the cycle. When OSA is a problem, most patients will not get the deep, restorative sleep they need to feel their best the next day. This can lead to chronic fatigue and poor memory and concentration.
What can I use instead of CPAP therapy?
Patients diagnosed with OSA are often prescribed a device called a CPAP machine. This machine is designed to be worn over the nose and the mouth to maintain open airways while one sleeps. However, it can be uncomfortable to wear and difficult to travel with. Patients often stop using the device and, in turn, stop treating their condition.
Instead, our Red Hill Dental Practice team encourages patients to ask about a sleep apnea oral appliance. A sleep apnea mouthguard allows patients to wear a customized mouthpiece to maintain open airways when they sleep. These devices are more comfortable to wear and easier to travel with, making them a desirable option for many patients unhappy with their CPAP devices.
Schedule a visit with our dedicated team today to learn more!
Call (03) 5907 5942 to request an appointment with our team at Red Hill Dental Practice to learn more about oral appliance therapy for treating obstructive sleep apnea!
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