1700 Eagle Harbor PKWY East, Orange Park, FL 32003
Get Directions >Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which breathing is interrupted during sleep, has a variety of different treatment methods. Which is best for you depends on the cause of your sleep apnea, which type of sleep apnea you have, and other factors. For some, lifestyle changes like stopping smoking, exercising more regularly, avoiding alcohol, and weight loss can reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea, like snoring, significantly. However, that’s not the case for everyone.
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:
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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Our Doctors
Meet our Family of Dentists
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.
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?
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