Sleep Apnea
Among our service offerings, we offer a custom-fitted sleep apnea appliance to treat sleep-related breathing disorders.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses can occur multiple times throughout the night, disrupting sleep patterns and causing various health issues. If left untreated, sleep apnea can have detrimental effects on overall health and quality of life.
Patients who want to complete their sleep study must have their primary care provider (PCP) diagnose them with sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea Appliances at MegaDental Willow Grove
Custom Oral Appliance Therapy: If you are diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend custom oral appliance therapy. These oral devices are designed to be worn during sleep and help keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw and tongue. Our dentist will ensure a proper fit and provide ongoing monitoring to optimize the appliance's effectiveness.
Advantages of Oral Appliance vs CPAP for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Two standard treatment options for sleep apnea are oral appliances and CPAP machines.
Comfort
One of the most significant advantages of using an oral appliance for sleep apnea is its comfort. CPAP machines can be bulky and cumbersome, making it difficult for some individuals to get a good night's sleep. On the other hand, oral appliances are small, lightweight, and custom-fitted to the individual's mouth, making them much more comfortable to wear while sleeping.
Convenience
Another advantage of using an oral appliance is its convenience. CPAP machines require electricity to operate and can be noisy, which can be disruptive to both the user and their partner. Oral appliances are silent and do not require any external power source, making them much more convenient for travel or use in situations where electricity is not readily available.
Effectiveness
While CPAP machines are often considered the gold standard for treating sleep apnea, oral appliances have been shown to be just as effective in many cases. Studies have shown that oral appliances can significantly reduce the number of apnea episodes during sleep and improve overall sleep quality.
Compliance
One of the main reasons why some individuals do not use their CPAP machines consistently is due to non-compliance. Oral appliances are typically easier to use and more comfortable, leading to higher compliance rates among individuals with sleep apnea. This means that individuals are more likely to use their oral appliance consistently, leading to better outcomes in the long run.
Customization
Oral appliances are custom-fitted to each individual's mouth, making them much more comfortable and effective than a one-size-fits-all CPAP mask. This customization ensures that the oral appliance fits securely and comfortably, reducing the risk of air leaks and discomfort during sleep.