Oral Appliance Therapy For Sleep Apnea

Suspect you might have obstructive sleep apnea?

It’s important to see your doctor right away. If left untreated, it can become life-threatening.

Does your bed partner tell you that you frequently stop breathing during the night? What if you sleep alone? Here are some signs that you may have sleep apnea:

Loud snoring
Awakening suddenly
Difficulty staying asleep
Frequently being tired during the day
Waking with a dry mouth
Headaches, especially right after waking
Difficulty concentrating

Recurring interruptions in breathing during sleep cuts off oxygen to the brain. When the brain is not getting enough oxygen, the heart slows down. When the person resumes breathing, the heart goes into panic mode to push the oxygen to the brain. Then the cycle repeats itself many times an hour each and every night. This stop-and-start action is dangerous for every organ in the body.

CPAP (Positive Airway Pressure) may be the most well-known treatment for sleep apnea. Some people are not aware that there are other treatments.

Your Dentist Can Help

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) conducted by a dentist can be an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has approved OAT in the following circumstances:

As a first-line treatment for individuals with mild to moderate OSA
As a first-line treatment for individuals with severe OSA who are unable to use CPAP devices
As a combination therapy (using CPAP and an oral appliance together)

A custom-fit oral appliance allows patients to breath normally while sleeping. A diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea must be made by an MD. If the physician recommends oral appliance therapy, he or she will refer the patient to a dentist who is trained in treating sleep disorders.

The advantages of an oral appliance over a CPAP machine include:

More convenient
More comfortable
Portable
Quiet
Doesn’t need electricity
Easy to clean
May allow wearer to talk and eat during use

If you have been suffering from untreated obstructive sleep apnea, OAT can restore your health. The team at Blaisdell Family Dentistry encourages you to see a physician soon before your health is compromised. If you have already received a diagnosis of OSA and would like information about OAT, call 208-377-9696 to set up a consultation at Blaisdell Family Dentistry.