By Ines Brennan
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person's breathing becomes very shallow or ceases altogether for several seconds periodically during sleep. The use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)machine is effective for some, but is not the only alternative. Dental appliances for sleep apnea can also help correct this condition and encourage normal breathing patterns in patients.
Different types of appliances exist for this purpose which work in various ways but achieve the same results. There are some which keep the tongue in a forward position, while others reposition the lower jaw. It is easy to come by these appliances, as there are even online sites where they can be bought, however it is recommended to instead consult a dentist or orthodontist who provides this type of treatment. Patients will be fitted for custom-made appliances that offer more comfort and effectiveness.
A dental healthcare provider will make plaster molds of the patient's teeth. These impressions will be used to craft a device which takes into account the unique size and shape of the mouth. Ultimately a custom-made appliance will offer a higher level of effectiveness and more comfort.
The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.
An apnea control apparatus is usually worn in a way similar to how a retainer is worn. It is typical for it to be slightly awkward-feeling at first, but this sensation usually goes away in time. If the patient finds that there is stiffness of discomfort in the jaw however, in particular the temporomandibular joint, this needs to be brought to the dentist's attention as it may be necessary to consider another approach. If someone already has TMJ they should probably use a different approach.
During the course of the treatment period, the patient's lower jaw will gradually move forward more. This is usually most noticeable once about six months of treatment have passed. This is part of the process and it lends itself to the safety and effectiveness of the appliance.
The patient will also need to attend a sleep study session after several weeks of treatment. This is done to determine if the approach has successfully eliminated or reduced the occurrence of apnea. It is advisable to undergo this assessment in the same facility where the first diagnostic was carried out, in order to allow easier comparison of results.
Not everyone can or wants to use a CPAP machine to control this disorder. Dental appliances for sleep apnea are the ideal solution for such patients. One must be sure to visit a dental professional however, as to get the most suitable device for his or her unique mouth shape. In some instances, an appliance may need to be altered to increase its effectiveness.
Different types of appliances exist for this purpose which work in various ways but achieve the same results. There are some which keep the tongue in a forward position, while others reposition the lower jaw. It is easy to come by these appliances, as there are even online sites where they can be bought, however it is recommended to instead consult a dentist or orthodontist who provides this type of treatment. Patients will be fitted for custom-made appliances that offer more comfort and effectiveness.
A dental healthcare provider will make plaster molds of the patient's teeth. These impressions will be used to craft a device which takes into account the unique size and shape of the mouth. Ultimately a custom-made appliance will offer a higher level of effectiveness and more comfort.
The dentist or orthodontist will also do some other assessments to ensure the appliance is fitting properly. A second series of impressions will also be taken and these will then be sent to the laboratory where the device will be made. At the patient's next appointment, he or she will try on the new appliance in order that the dentist can make any necessary adjustments.
An apnea control apparatus is usually worn in a way similar to how a retainer is worn. It is typical for it to be slightly awkward-feeling at first, but this sensation usually goes away in time. If the patient finds that there is stiffness of discomfort in the jaw however, in particular the temporomandibular joint, this needs to be brought to the dentist's attention as it may be necessary to consider another approach. If someone already has TMJ they should probably use a different approach.
During the course of the treatment period, the patient's lower jaw will gradually move forward more. This is usually most noticeable once about six months of treatment have passed. This is part of the process and it lends itself to the safety and effectiveness of the appliance.
The patient will also need to attend a sleep study session after several weeks of treatment. This is done to determine if the approach has successfully eliminated or reduced the occurrence of apnea. It is advisable to undergo this assessment in the same facility where the first diagnostic was carried out, in order to allow easier comparison of results.
Not everyone can or wants to use a CPAP machine to control this disorder. Dental appliances for sleep apnea are the ideal solution for such patients. One must be sure to visit a dental professional however, as to get the most suitable device for his or her unique mouth shape. In some instances, an appliance may need to be altered to increase its effectiveness.
About the Author:
You can visit the website apneaandsnoring.com for more helpful information about Patients Using Dental Appliances For Sleep Apnea Can Experience Relief
0 comments Blogger 0 Facebook
Post a Comment