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You and your family might be eligible for the new government dental plan | visit page or call us or fill the form to find out.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that disrupts your sleep and affects your overall health. If you have difficulty using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine (the first option your pulmonologist or sleep professional suggests), another effective treatment option you could try are dental appliances. These devices can help you breathe better and sleep more soundly. At My Dentist at Morgan Creek in South Surrey / White Rock, we offer different types of oral appliances that might be the right solution for your sleep apnea and assist you in achieving a more restful sleep.
Sleep apnea is a condition where your airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing you to stop breathing temporarily. Sleep apnea can happen multiple times throughout the night, leading to poor sleep quality and various health issues. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) where the airway is blocked by the tongue or soft tissues in the throat. According to research, approximately 35% of men and 20% of women have OSA.
Dental oral appliances are custom-made devices that you wear in your mouth while you sleep. They help keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw or tongue. These appliances are an alternative to CPAP machines, which some people find uncomfortable to use.
There are two main types of appliances: mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-stabilizing devices (TSDs). Each type works differently to improve airflow and reduce sleep disruptions.
Mandibular advancement devices are the most common type. They are custom-fitted mouthguards made of rigid plastic. These appliances feature adjustable metal components that gently shift the lower jaw forward. MADs are the most common type of oral appliance for treating OSA. They work by pulling your lower jaw or mandible forward, which in turn pulls your tongue forward, creating more space in the back of your throat. This helps to keep your airway open during sleep.
TSDs are made of a soft plastic splint that is placed around the tongue and uses a suction bulb to hold your tongue in place, preventing it from blocking your airway. These oral devices are less common than MADs but can be a good option for people who cannot use MADs due to dental issues.
Oral appliances work by repositioning the structures in your mouth to keep your airway open. Here’s how each type functions:
Do give us a call on (604) 542-0123 or write to mydentists@gmail.com if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment.
Oral appliances can significantly improve your sleep quality by reducing the number of apnea episodes you experience each night. This leads to more restful and uninterrupted sleep.
By improving your sleep quality, oral appliances can help you feel more alert and energetic during the day. This can enhance your overall productivity and quality of life.
One of the added benefits of using oral appliances is the reduction in snoring. This can be a relief not only for you but also for your sleeping partner.
Oral appliances are generally more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines. They are also portable, making them a convenient option for travel.
Off-the-shelf oral appliances may not fit your mouth properly, reducing their effectiveness in treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Custom-made devices are tailored to your specific dental structure, ensuring a better fit and improved results.
Poorly fitting appliances can cause discomfort, leading to inconsistent use. Custom devices are designed for comfort, increasing the likelihood that you’ll wear them consistently and benefit from the therapy.
Ill-fitting off-the-shelf devices can cause dental issues, jaw pain, and other side effects. Custom-made appliances are adjusted to minimise these risks, providing a safer treatment option.
Custom devices come with professional oversight from a dentist, ensuring proper fitting, adjustments, and monitoring of your progress. This personalised care is crucial for effective and safe treatment of OSA.
Oral appliances are suitable for people with mild to moderate OSA who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. They are also a good option for people who travel frequently and need a portable solution.
Oral appliances can be effective for treating OSA, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. Individuals with severe OSA or central sleep apnea, certain dental conditions, or those who cannot tolerate the device may need to explore alternative treatments. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best approach for managing sleep apnea.
To get a dental oral appliance, you will need to visit a dentist who specialises in sleep apnea treatment like My Dentist at Morgan Creek in South Surrey. Here’s what you can expect during the fitting process:
While dental oral appliances are generally safe, some people may experience side effects, especially during the initial adjustment period.
Proper maintenance of your oral appliance is crucial for its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for keeping your device in good condition:
At My Dentist at Morgan Creek, we specialise in providing personalised and effective solutions for sleep apnea. Dr Madhvi Potluri is a certified dental sleep medicine treatment provider and able to help you achieve better sleep and improved health.
If you are struggling with sleep apnea and looking for an effective solution, contact My Dentist at Morgan Creek today. Dr Madhvi Potluri is here to help you achieve better sleep and improved health. Schedule a consultation to learn more about how dental oral appliances can benefit you.
We’ll help you find a payment plan that fits your budget.
