A sleep appliance is an oral device designed to push the tongue forward and stabilize the tongue or lower jaw, preventing the obstruction of air into the airway. This can prevent snoring and sleep apnea, as well as help children struggling with thumb-sucking or teeth grinding while they sleep. Many dentists and sleep specialists will be able to fit patients with appropriate appliances once they have completed a diagnostic exam and have determined which type of apnea they are suffering from.
Patients who have mild to moderate sleep apnea often use sleep appliances to improve their symptoms. These devices can improve patient’s quality of life by allowing them to get a good night’s rest throughout the night, which is essential for great health. The severity of a patient’s snoring and apnea will dictate whether a sleep appliance is a suitable treatment option for them. In many cases, these devices are more comfortable than traditional CPAP machines, making them a preferred option for many patients. They are also more affordable to maintain than CPAP devices. Using a device such as this will reduce the risk of serious health problems associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
If you have mild to moderate sleep apnea, there are many options available to help you manage your condition. For example, your dentist can provide you with a continuous positive airway pressure machine that uses a mask to create a stream of air that keeps your upper airway open and unobstructed while you sleep. This device uses a pump to force air through the mask, so the air will be warm. Your doctor may recommend you wear the mask while sleeping every night until your symptoms improve. In some cases, your doctor might recommend using a mouthpiece as you sleep. These devices expand when you bite down and can help to keep your jaw in place, so your airway stays open throughout the night.
Get in touch with Sunset Oak Dental in Rocklin, California, to schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Felahy. Call (916) 435-5111, request an appointment online or visit our office at 2161 Sunset Blvd, Suite 300, Rocklin, CA, 95765.
2161 Sunset Blvd, Suite 300
Rocklin, CA, 95765
Sunset Oak Dental
2161 Sunset Blvd, Suite 300
Email: admin@sunsetoakdental.com
Tel: (916) 435-5111
MON - THU : 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
FRI - SUN : Closed