Oral Appliances
Oral appliances in dentistry refer to corrective devices designed to treat conditions like snoring or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Because the tissues of your mouth relax while you’re asleep, this can cause either vibrations that lead to snoring or a blockage of air from narrowed passages.
Getting treatment for this can not only help you stop unwanted noises at night, it can also be the key to improving your health. A retainer, mouth guard, or other appliance can make it possible for you to take uninterrupted breaths for as long as you’re asleep.
What Is an Oral Appliance?
An oral appliance will fit over your teeth and support your jaw while you’re sleeping. It’s essentially moving your mouth and throat into the right position, so your airway stays open. These devices can be custom-fit to your body, and they’re proven to reduce nighttime disruptions.
Whether you’re interested in an oral appliance to help a partner sleep a little easier or because you’re exhausted during the day, a qualified dentist can make it easy to get the products you need. They may work with a sleep physician to test your breathing patterns or they may work with you one-on-one. Regardless of how you get the device, it can be a key step toward better rest.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliances are typically easy to wear, light, portable, and convenient. Because apnea and snoring are common conditions, the point of these products is to encourage people to use them on a regular basis.
Complex products, like CPAP machines, can be useful, but they’re ultimately large and bulky, which can make travel difficult. With oral appliance therapy, it’s possible for people with mild to moderate snoring or sleep apnea the relief they need.
Find a Dentist Who Specializes in Oral Appliance Therapy
People with apnea can wake up gasping or even choking. People with intense snoring may find themselves yawning all day. Seeing a specialist for something as convenient as an oral appliance can change your world and give you back all of the wonderful restorative benefits of a good night’s sleep.