Comparing Dental Oral Appliance Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Thousand Oaks, CA

Dental oral appliances, also called mandibular advancement devices, can often treat sleep apnea and relieve symptoms. Understanding more about how dental oral appliances work for sleep apnea treatment and how they compare to other treatment solutions can help you decide if treatment is right for you. 

A review and comparison of oral appliances for sleep apnea

The days of relying upon your CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea are over. There are now several ways to treat sleep apnea effectively, including dental oral appliances. This review explains sleep apnea oral appliances in greater depth and provides a comparison between them and CPAP machines. 

About sleep apnea oral appliances

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that causes the person to stop breathing while asleep, resulting in them frequently waking up and not getting an adequate amount of oxygen. Sleep apnea oral appliances — most notably, mandibular advancement devices — are worn by patients with OSA to stay asleep. They work by keeping the tongue and jaw in the proper position to keep the airway in the back of the throat open. This relieves symptoms and allows for a better night's rest. 

Oral appliances vs. CPAP machines

CPAP machines are common for treating obstructive sleep apnea and involve providing oxygen to keep the airway open throughout the night. However, they require a mask, and many consider them to be less comfortable than oral appliances. An oral appliance is often just as effective in treating OSA, and it is considered by many to be easier to use and travel with. 

How to choose the best oral appliance for sleep apnea

Oral appliances and CPAP machines are both effective and have their pros and cons. CPAP machines are effective for most with sleep apnea and relatively affordable. However, for some people, they are awkward and uncomfortable. Mandibular advancement devices, the most common types of dental oral appliances, are easier to wear, effective and affordable. In some instances, oral appliances may not be quite as effective as a CPAP machine, however. 

When to consider sleep apnea treatment

If the symptoms of sleep apnea become chronic or severe, then the patient should seek treatment. The most notable symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • An inability to stay asleep
  • Morning headaches
  • Lack of energy and focus
  • Snoring, tossing and turning

Sleep apnea may contribute to cardiovascular issues later in life if not treated properly. Some people find relief through lifestyle changes, although most require either a CPAP machine or an oral appliance for obstructive sleep apnea. The best way to determine if a treatment is appropriate is to arrange a visit with a dentist who offers sleep apnea treatment. 

Discuss sleep apnea treatment with a licensed dentist

No one should have to deal with the symptoms of sleep apnea each night. If you have not found an effective solution for your sleep apnea, contact our dental team and arrange a visit, during which we can discuss oral appliances and put together an effective treatment plan.

Are you considering sleep apnea treatment in the Thousand Oaks area? Get more information at https://dramysdental.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sleep Apnea in Thousand Oaks, CA.

Related Posts

What Oral Appliances Are Used In Dentistry To Treat Sleep Apnea?

There are several treatment options available for patients with sleep apnea. For some, CPAP machines may be an ideal solution, although more patients are using dental appliances in place of their CPAP machines. The following is a review of available treatment options for sleep apnea and how to choose the one that works best. Two common…

How Does A Family Dentist Treat Cavities?

Seeing a family dentist for a cavity treatment can target the problem teeth right away before they worsen. Many solutions are available. Discussing the process can help you make informed decisions. Here are the details on how your family dentist treats cavities.An individual cannot treat a cavity at home. The only way to get relief…

A Dental Crown Overview: What You Need To Know

Think you may need a dental crown? Read on to learn more about this dental restoration. Teeth are the strongest part of our bodies; however, they are also easily harmed by day-to-day activities like drinking and eating. When teeth are damaged or decayed, dental crowns serve as caps or covers to restore their shape, strength,…

Facts And Myths About Full Mouth Reconstruction

When considering full mouth reconstruction to restore oral health, it is important to learn about the process, including the choice to make. When multiple dental issues are present, a full mouth reconstruction is usually the best procedure to correct the problems and restore oral functions and one's appearance. Since there is a lot of information…

Related Posts

What Oral Appliances Are Used In Dentistry To Treat Sleep Apnea?

What Oral Appliances Are Used In Dentistry To Treat Sleep Apnea?

There are several treatment options available for patients with sleep apnea. For some, CPAP machines may be an ideal solution, although more patients are using dental appliances in place of their CPAP machines. The following is a review of available treatment options for sleep apnea and how to choose the one that works best. Two common…

How Does A Family Dentist Treat Cavities?

How Does A Family Dentist Treat Cavities?

Seeing a family dentist for a cavity treatment can target the problem teeth right away before they worsen. Many solutions are available. Discussing the process can help you make informed decisions. Here are the details on how your family dentist treats cavities.An individual cannot treat a cavity at home. The only way to get relief…