Sleep apnea is a common disorder characterized by sudden interrupted breathing during sleep and affects millions of Americans. Severity and symptoms can vary, common symptoms include: snoring, dry sore mouth, gasping, sleepiness, mood changes, headaches,and lack of energy.
Sleep Apnea treatment varies with the severity of the condition among other factors. Changing the position that you sleep in, diet, and exercise are often recommended. For some removing the tonsils can help in the treatment of sleep apnea. Severe apnea is often treated with the use of a continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP). CPAP involves the patient wearing a mask while attached to a machine when sleeping. It can be quite cumbersome and noisy which can lead to a low compliance rate.
At our office we can make a Mandibular Advancement Device for treating mild to moderate apnea and snoring. The device advances the jaw forward which allows more space at the back of the throat decreasing the likelihood that the pharynx will collapse. This allows more air to the patient and can help treat sleep apnea in a less intrusive more comfortable way when compared to a CPAP. The device also works well for patients who travel and are unable to bring a CPAP with them. If you have any interest please ask at your appointment if a Mandibular Advancement Device is something that will help your condition.