What are dental appliances for sleep apnea?

Dental appliances for sleep apnea are devices that are worn in the mouth at night to help keep the airway open and prevent obstruction. They are custom-made to fit your individual mouth and teeth.

How do dental appliances for sleep apnea work?

Dental appliances for sleep apnea work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to open the airway. This can be done by moving the upper jaw forward (maxillary advancement devices), holding the tongue in place (tongue-retaining devices), or a combination of both (combination MAD/TRDs).

What are the benefits of using dental appliances for sleep apnea?

Dental appliances for sleep apnea can offer a number of benefits, including:

• Improved sleep quality: Wearing a dental appliance for sleep apnea can help to reduce or eliminate snoring and improve sleep quality.
• Reduced risk of health problems: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Wearing a dental appliance for sleep apnea can help to reduce your risk of these health problems.
• Non-invasive: Dental appliances for sleep apnea are non-invasive and comfortable to wear. They do not require the use of electricity or batteries, and they are not as bulky as CPAP machines.

Who is a good candidate for dental appliances for sleep apnea?

Dental appliances for sleep apnea may be a good option for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea who are not comfortable with CPAP therapy. They may also be a good option for people who have tried CPAP therapy but have not been able to tolerate it.

What are the risks of using dental appliances for sleep apnea?

The risks of using dental appliances for sleep apnea are generally low. However, some people may experience side effects, such as:

• Jaw pain: This is the most common side effect of dental appliances for sleep apnea. It is usually mild and goes away on its own over time.
• Loose teeth: In rare cases, dental appliances for sleep apnea can cause loose teeth. This is usually only a problem for people with weak teeth or gum disease.
• Gum recession: In rare cases, dental appliances for sleep apnea can cause gum recession. This is usually only a problem for people who wear the appliance for long periods of time.