Characterized by shallow or paused breathing during sleep, sleep apnea can lead to poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and concentration difficulties, among other issues. If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in severe health complications, including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. One popular treatment option for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which uses a mask connected to a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air pressure to keep the airways open. While effective, some patients find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or cumbersome, leading to a search for alternative treatments, such as oral appliances.
At Sleep Better Live Better, our sleep doctors in the Vancouver area are committed to helping you achieve quality sleep, resulting in improved overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore oral appliances as a treatment option for sleep apnea. We’ll cover the different types of oral appliances, their benefits, and their effectiveness in treating sleep apnea.
Oral appliances are custom-made, removable dental devices designed to help keep the upper airway open while you sleep. They do this by positioning the lower jaw and tongue forward, preventing the airway from collapsing. There are two main types of oral appliances for sleep apnea treatment: mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices (TRDs).
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are the most commonly prescribed oral appliances for sleep apnea. They resemble a sports mouthguard and work by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward to expand the airway.
Tongue-retaining devices (TRDs), on the other hand, are designed to hold the tongue forward without repositioning the lower jaw. TRDs use a suction mechanism to maintain the tongue in a forward position, thereby preventing airway obstruction.
Oral appliances for sleep apnea offer several benefits, such as comfort, ease of use, and portability, which make them an increasingly popular treatment choice, particularly for those who cannot tolerate or do not wish to use a CPAP machine. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the details of how oral appliances work and their effectiveness in treating sleep apnea. Our team of sleep experts at Sleep Better Live Better is here to support you in finding the best treatment for your specific needs.
The Mechanism of Oral Appliances
Oral appliances work to improve sleep apnea by targeting the main cause of airway obstruction – a relaxed tongue or soft tissues in the back of the throat that collapse during sleep. By repositioning the lower jaw or holding the tongue forward, oral appliances effectively widen the upper airway, reducing the frequency of breathing interruptions, and ultimately alleviating sleep apnea symptoms.
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) function by fitting over the upper and lower teeth, and using adjustable bands or screws to bring the lower jaw forward. This forward positioning of the jaw also brings the tongue and soft tissues along, thus expanding the airway and reducing the likelihood of its collapse.
Tongue-retaining devices (TRDs) are designed to keep the tongue forward without moving the lower jaw. These devices function by using a suction mechanism, which holds the tongue in place and prevents it from falling back during sleep, obstructing the airway.
It is crucial to note that oral appliances should be custom-fitted by a qualified dental professional, as over-the-counter devices may not provide the same level of effectiveness and might even cause discomfort or dental issues.
Effectiveness of Oral Appliances
Studies have shown that oral appliances can be a successful treatment option for many individuals suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea. They have proven especially effective for people who primarily suffer from positional sleep apnea, where symptoms occur predominantly when sleeping on the back. Additionally, oral appliances have demonstrated positive results for those who cannot tolerate or find it challenging to adhere to CPAP therapy.
According to research, approximately 40-65% of users experience a significant reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) with MADs, with an average decrease of 50% in AHI. Moreover, numerous studies report substantial improvements in patient-reported factors such as sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, quality of life, and overall satisfaction.
Although evidence also indicates that CPAP therapy may be more effective than oral appliances in reducing AHI for severe sleep apnea cases, oral appliances can be considered a viable alternative for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP or prefer a less intrusive treatment.
Obtaining and Adjusting an Oral Appliance
To begin your journey with oral appliance therapy, consult a qualified dental professional or a sleep specialist experienced in treating sleep apnea. They will typically perform an evaluation of your teeth, jaw, and airway to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for an oral appliance. Among the factors that might affect your eligibility are the severity of your sleep apnea, your jaw’s position, and your dental health.
If you are found to be an appropriate candidate, your dental professional will take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-made oral appliance tailored to fit your mouth comfortably. Once the device is ready, your dentist will guide you on how to use it, adjust it, and care for it. They will also monitor your progress, ensure the device is working efficiently, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is essential to follow the instructions of your dental professional carefully and maintain regular check-ups to ensure your oral appliance continues to be effective and comfortable.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While oral appliances can be an effective solution for many sleep apnea sufferers, some potential risks and side effects may arise. These issues may include:
– Temporary discomfort or soreness in the jaw, teeth, or gums, especially in the initial adjustment period.
– Changes in the alignment of the teeth, bite, or jaw due to prolonged use of the device.
– Excessive drooling, particularly when first starting to use the device.
– Dry mouth or throat.
It is crucial to work closely with your dental professional, who can help mitigate these side effects by adjustment or provide guidance on how to address them. Regular dental visits will also ensure the early detection of any potential issues, thus maintaining the effectiveness of your treatment.
Conclusion
Oral appliance therapy has proven to be a valuable treatment option for those seeking an alternative to other conventional treatments, such as CPAP therapy. Custom-fitted sleep apnea oral appliances can effectively alleviate mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms for many individuals, leading to better sleep quality, reduced daytime sleepiness, and improved overall health. While potential side effects may arise, working closely with a qualified dental professional can help ensure a comfortable and successful experience with oral appliance therapy.
If you believe oral appliance therapy may be suitable for you, consult our team of sleep experts at Sleep Better Live Better in Pitt Meadows to discuss your options and embark on the journey towards better sleep and well-being.
