Sleep Apnea Treatment

Take back control of your sleep

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. Snoring alone may not indicate sleep apnea, but accompanied with other symptoms, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches, and more, especially interrupted breathing during sleep, can mean that you should see a doctor about treating sleep apnea.

An Inexpensive & Effective Solution

Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance

An oral appliance is similar to a mouthguard or a retainer in appearance and is an alternative treatment for sleep apnea. While CPAP machines may be more common, an oral appliance can be an effective way to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that is both more comfortable and less expensive than a CPAP machine, which can be bulky and noisy.

How Does an Oral Appliance Work To Treat Sleep Apnea?

An oral appliance works to keep the airway (which in OSA is blocked by the tongue and other soft tissues falling back into the throat, restricting the passage of air through the airways. There are two different kinds; one holds the tongue in place so that it cannot fall back into the airways. The other moves the jaw slightly to open up the airway more so that if the tongue does fall back it won’t obstruct the passage of air.

Benefits of Using an Oral Appliance To Treat Sleep Apnea

There are a number of benefits to using an oral appliance instead of another treatment option for treating sleep apnea and snoring:

Improved sleep quality: By reducing the frequency and severity of apneas and hypopneas, oral appliances help improve overall sleep quality, leading to better rest and reduced daytime sleepiness.
Comfort during sleep: Many patients find oral appliances more comfortable and less intrusive than CPAP masks. This increased comfort often leads to better adherence to treatment.
Portability and convenience: Oral appliances are small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them ideal for travel. They do not require electricity or extensive setup, unlike CPAP machines.
East of use: These devices are simple to use and maintain. Patients can easily insert and remove them without the need for complex adjustments or settings.
Less invasive: Compared to surgical options, oral appliances are non-invasive and reversible. They do not involve any surgical risks or recovery time.
Reduced noise: Oral appliances are silent, which can be beneficial for both the patient and their sleeping partner. CPAP machines can sometimes be noisy and disruptive.
Custom fit: Oral appliances are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. This customization enhances effectiveness and comfort.
No air pressure: Unlike CPAP therapy, oral appliances do not use air pressure to keep the airway open, which can be advantageous for those who find the sensation of CPAP air pressure uncomfortable or intolerable.
Improvement in related symptoms: By effectively treating sleep apnea, oral appliances can help alleviate related symptoms such as loud snoring, morning headaches, and irritability.
Potential cardiovascular benefits: Treating sleep apnea can reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, by improving oxygen levels and reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Easy As 1-2-3

The Process to Your Personalized Device is Simple

1. Intro-Oral Exam

We check that your quality of sleep could be improved with therapy

2. Get Your Customized Device

You’ll be fitted for your device which will be custom-tailored to your mouth

3. Sleep Easier

Your new oral appliance will help you improve your sleep and energy levels

Other Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

While an oral appliance may be a cheaper and more comfortable option for treating snoring and sleep apnea, it’s not the only treatment available.

CPAP Machine

CPAP machines, as well as APAP and BiPAP machines, are also used to treat sleep apnea. These machines use air pressure generated by a machine that is pushed through a tube attached to a mask worn during the night into the airways, where the airflow forcibly keeps the air passageway open.

Lifestyle Changes

Depending on the cause of the sleep apnea, lifestyle changes might have an impact. Being healthier in general, such as eating better, working out, stopping smoking, and avoiding alcohol can all help with sleep apnea symptoms like snoring. Sleeping on your side can also help to alleviate symptoms.

Surgery

In extreme cases, surgery might be necessary. Surgery might remove excess tissue that is blocking the airway or it might reposition muscles or the jaw to enlarge the airway.

Medications

If the sleep apnea is caused by another condition, then taking medications to treat that condition can also alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Your comfort is our priority

Talk To Your Dentist

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, talk to your doctor and dentist about whether an oral appliance is right for you. These devices can be an effective alternative to CPAP therapy for many patients, providing a more comfortable and convenient solution. Your dentist can evaluate your condition, discuss the benefits, and help you determine if this treatment option fits your lifestyle and needs. Don’t hesitate to bring up any concerns or questions during your consultation to ensure you receive the best care possible.

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Dr. Standish has been serving Clay County patients at Eagle Harbor Dental for over 40 years. His daughters Dr. Kelly & Dr. Erin joined the practice and they’ve been creating beautiful smiles as a family ever since. With extensive educations and memberships, our dentists are the best that Fleming Island has to offer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Some common symptoms of sleep apnea are loud, frequent snoring, feeling unrested after sleep, constant body movements, and excessive fatigue the next day. A much more serious symptom is if your partner tells you that you periodically stop breathing during your sleep. If you have this symptom, contact us as soon as possible to schedule your appointment.

Would I be able to tell if I sometimes stop breathing in the middle of the night?

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to tell if you have serious breathing issues in the middle of the night on your own. It takes someone else telling you. If you show signs of the other sleep apnea symptoms, try audio or video recording yourself overnight and check if you’re having these breathing episodes.

Does snoring mean that I have sleep apnea?

No, snoring alone does not mean that you have sleep apnea. It may, however, be a cause of concern if it is chronic and very loud. Also, if you notice that you’re showing signs of the other symptoms as well, contact our experts.

Are oral appliances for sleep apnea comfortable to wear?

Oral appliances are custom-tailored to your mouth and made of lightweight material, meaning that they can be rather comfortable to sleep with. If it isn’t comfortable at first, schedule follow-up appointments with your dentist to have it refitted.

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Sleep Apnea Treatment

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance

How Does an Oral Appliance Work To Treat Sleep Apnea?

Benefits of Using an Oral Appliance To Treat Sleep Apnea

The Process to Your Personalized Device is Simple

1. Intro-Oral Exam

2. Get Your Customized Device

3. Sleep Easier

Other Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

CPAP Machine

Lifestyle Changes

Surgery

Medications

Talk To Your Dentist

Insurance We Accept

Meet our Family of Dentists

See What Our Patients Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Would I be able to tell if I sometimes stop breathing in the middle of the night?

Does snoring mean that I have sleep apnea?

Are oral appliances for sleep apnea comfortable to wear?

Book your appointment

Give us a call

Insurance We Accept

Meet Our Dentists

Read Patient Reviews

Directions to Our Office

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