Are you one of the many people suffering from sleep apnea? If so, you know how disruptive it can be to your sleep and overall health. But did you know that a simple dental device could be the solution you've been looking for? Welcome to our blog where we'll explore how custom night guards can help manage sleep apnea symptoms.
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes your breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. It's often characterized by loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking. There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form that occurs when throat muscles relax; central sleep apnea, which happens when your brain doesn't send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing; and complex sleep apnea syndrome, a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Without treatment, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and complications with medications and surgery.
Custom night guards, also known as oral appliances or mandibular advancement devices, are designed to keep your airway open during sleep. They do this by moving your lower jaw forward or by restraining the tongue, which prevents the throat muscles from collapsing and blocking the airway. The result? Uninterrupted breathing and a better night's sleep.
Custom night guards are typically made of flexible plastic and are custom-fit to your mouth, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. They're a popular treatment option for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Custom night guards offer several benefits over other treatment options. Firstly, they're non-invasive, meaning there's no need for surgery or complex medical procedures. They're also portable and easy to care for, making them an excellent option for frequent travelers. Plus, many users find them more comfortable and less disruptive to their sleep than CPAP machines.
Additionally, custom night guards can also help alleviate snoring, improve sleep quality, and reduce daytime fatigue. They can even help prevent grinding, a common issue among sleep apnea sufferers.
If you're interested in trying a custom night guard for sleep apnea, the first step is to consult with a qualified dental professional. They can help determine if you're a good candidate for the device and guide you through the process of getting one.
Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send it to a dental lab, where your custom night guard will be created. Once it's ready, you'll have a fitting appointment to ensure it fits properly and comfortably.
While a custom night guard can greatly improve your sleep quality and overall health, it's important to remember that it's not a cure for sleep apnea. You should continue to follow any other treatment plans your doctor has recommended, including lifestyle changes like losing weight or quitting smoking.
It's also important to regularly clean your night guard and store it properly to ensure its longevity. Your dentist can provide you with detailed care instructions.
If you live in Eau Claire and you're struggling with sleep apnea, don't suffer in silence. At Valley Edge Dental, Dr. Erin Tollefson and Dr. Joe Bartlett are here to help. We'll work with you to determine if a custom night guard could be the solution you need. Don't let sleep apnea disrupt your life any longer. Call us today at (715) 955-4401 to request an appointment.