Sleep apnea and snoring are common conditions that can significantly impact your health and quality of life. If you or a loved one struggle with restless nights, loud snoring, or excessive daytime fatigue, you may benefit from an oral appliance. At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, we offer customized oral appliances that provide a non-invasive and effective solution for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, causing airway obstruction. This leads to pauses in breathing, snoring, and disrupted sleep cycles. Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic fatigue.
How Oral Appliances Work
Oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or tongue-retaining devices, are custom-made dental appliances designed to keep the airway open during sleep. These appliances gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue forward, preventing airway collapse and reducing snoring. Unlike traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral appliances are small, portable, and do not require masks or noisy machines, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a comfortable and discreet solution.
Benefits of Oral Appliances
Choosing an oral appliance for sleep apnea and snoring offers several advantages:
- Improved Sleep Quality – By keeping the airway open, these devices promote uninterrupted sleep, reducing daytime drowsiness and improving overall well-being.
- Comfort and Convenience – Custom-fitted for your mouth, oral appliances are comfortable, easy to wear, and do not require electricity or additional equipment.
- Non-Invasive Solution – Unlike surgical interventions, oral appliances provide a safe and reversible treatment option.
- Portable and Travel-Friendly – Lightweight and compact, these devices are ideal for frequent travelers who may find CPAP machines cumbersome.
- Enhanced Overall Health – By addressing sleep apnea, patients reduce their risk of cardiovascular problems, improve cognitive function, and experience fewer mood disturbances.
Who is a Candidate for an Oral Appliance?
Oral appliances are most effective for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who snore but do not have apnea. They are also a great alternative for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, a sleep study may be required for diagnosis, and our team will work with your physician to determine if an oral appliance is the best solution for you.
Custom Oral Appliances from Our Cosmetic Dental Practice
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, we specialize in creating custom oral appliances tailored to fit your unique dental structure. We take precise impressions of your teeth to ensure a snug and effective fit. Our goal is to help you achieve better sleep, improved health, and enhanced quality of life through personalized treatment solutions.
If you or a loved one suffer from snoring or sleep apnea, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you sleep better, feel better, and wake up refreshed every morning!
