Getting the recommended seven hours of sleep per night but still feeling groggy the next day? There’s a chance you’re one of the 18 million Americans living with sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a condition that interrupts an individual’s breathing patterns during sleep and can be especially dangerous during REM sleep (PsychCentral). Though there are different treatment options for managing sleep apnea, the decision will depend on your individual condition. Your medical or dental team may suggest a sleep test if you’re experiencing mild-to-moderate sleep apnea symptoms.
Once a sleep test is completed and a sleep physician has reviewed the results, a sleep device may be advised. Sleep devices include a CPAP or oral sleep appliance.
Oral Sleep Appliance vs. CPAP Masks
An oral sleep appliance is a device you wear while asleep that fits inside your mouth like an orthodontic retainer.
Top benefits of using an oral sleep appliance include:
- No electricity
- Zero noise creation while in use
- Convenient size for easy travel
- Comfortable to wear
- Easy to wear while talking or drinking
A CPAP machine is a device one wears while asleep that helps produce a constant airflow to the throat to help your airways remain open during sleep.
FAQs About Oral Sleep Appliance
How Can I Get Prescribed an Oral Sleep Appliance?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, you’ll first need a medical diagnosis. To do this, request a home sleep test from Dakota Dental. Once diagnosed, your dental team at Dakota Dental will share options for treating your sleep apnea with an oral sleep appliance.
What Can I Expect During Treatment?
Your dentist will either digitally scan or take an impression of your teeth to construct a custom-fit oral sleep appliance. After two weeks, you’ll be fitted with your device while your dental team makes any appropriate adjustments to ensure the device feels comfortable in your mouth.
How Much Does an Oral Sleep Appliance Cost?
Your medical insurance provider may cover the costs of both your sleep study and oral appliance. Contact your insurance provider to learn more or ask Dakota Dental about our special financing options to help you receive the treatment you need.
Oral Sleep Appliance: An Alternative Treatment for Sleep Apnea
For some patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, wearing a CPAP machine at night may feel uncomfortable or less effective. If this occurs and it’s beginning to affect your quality of life, an oral sleep appliance may be an alternative.
The oral sleep appliance includes both upper and lower removable trays that remain connected through a stable hinge located on each side. The device works by bringing the lower jaw forward to help open the airways and introduce proper breathing.
New Sleep Apnea Treatment Available at Dakota Dental
Choosing between a CPAP machine or an oral sleep appliance will depend on your individual situation. At Dakota Dental, our dental team will assist you in making the best decision in treating your sleep condition and helping you get back to feeling your best.
Contact us to learn more about oral sleep appliances today!