If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you’re likely exploring various treatment options to improve your quality of life.
From those listed, you may well ask, do I require a mouth guard for sleep apnoea? The answer is undoubtedly yes. A mouth guard could be a great asset to many out there.
Let’s explore sleep apnea, its effects on your health, and how a mouthguard can assist in its management. Why is it essential to consult with a dentist near you to check out the right mouthguards.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is characterized by temporary suspension of your breath and it again starts during sleep. These interruptions are typically caused by:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Blockage in the upper airway, often due to relaxed throat muscles.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Control signals from the brain do not properly reach the muscles that support breathing.
Sleep Apnea’s Common Symptoms
- Noisy breathing through the nose or mouth during sleep
- Pauses in breathing
- Persistent daytime sleepiness
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Insomnia or restless sleep
- Irritability or difficulty concentrating
Undiagnosed sleep apnea can leave you feeling fatigued, impacting your daily life. Worse, it increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. However, you may not be aware that sleep apnea also has implications for oral health.
Sleep Apnea and Your Oral Health
Sleep apnea often leads to dry mouth because many individuals breathe through their mouths at night. This leads to less saliva production which is supposed to help clean the teeth and fight bacteria, thereby, protecting your teeth and gums. As a result, you may face:
- Increased risk of tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Halitosis (bad breath)
One more frequent side effect is teeth grinding or bruxism which results in enamel erosion, joint discomfort, and even headaches. Addressing sleep apnea can protect both your oral and overall health.
Treatment of Sleep Apnea
The diagnosis of sleep apnea entails going through a sleep study test that could be in at a clinic or at one’s home with the requisite equipment. Once diagnosed, treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, smoking cessation, or adjusting sleep positions
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): An instrument which maintains a continuous airflow in the airway.
- Surgical interventions or implants
- Mouthguards: A less invasive and more comfortable option for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
While CPAP machines are highly effective for severe sleep apnea, they can be uncomfortable for some people. Mouthguards are easy to wear and adjust, portable – very convenient while travelling and are multifunctional as they also address teeth grinding.
How a Mouthguard Helps with Sleep Apnea
A mouthguard for sleep apnea is a custom-made device designed to improve airflow and prevent airway blockages during sleep. There are two primary types of mouthguards for managing sleep apnea:
1. Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRDs)
These mouthguards work by slightly repositioning your lower jaw forward. This keeps the airway open by preventing the tongue or soft tissues from collapsing. Bonus: they also help reduce teeth grinding!
2. Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
These devices hold your tongue in a forward position, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the airway.
Both types can be customized to your specific needs, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Additionally, there are some mouthguards for teeth grinding treatment, offering a dual benefit for those with bruxism.
Do You Need a Mouthguard for Sleep Apnea?
A mouthguard might be the right solution if you have:
- Mild sleep apnea or symptoms that worsen only when you sleep on your back.
- Teeth grinding issues in addition to sleep apnea.
However, it’s essential to consult with a dentist near you or a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.
Dealing with sleep apnea can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. A custom mouthguard for teeth grinding and sleep apnea can significantly improve your sleep quality and protect your oral health.
If you’re ready to explore solutions, visit Bear Creek Dental for expert advice and personalized care. Whether you’re searching for a dentist near you or need assistance with the treatment of sleep apnea, we’re here to help.
How Bear Creek Dental Can Help
At Bear Creek Dental, we offer customized solutions to help manage sleep apnea and its side effects. Our mouthguards in Grande Prairie are designed to fit comfortably and provide effective relief for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
The Process:
- Consultation and Diagnosis: We’ll evaluate your condition and determine if a mouthguard is the right solution.
- Customization: Using impressions of your teeth, we’ll create a mouthguard tailored to your unique oral structure.
- Final Fitting: Once your mouthguard is ready, our dentist in Grande Prairie will ensure a perfect fit, so you can sleep comfortably and breathe easier.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life. Contact Bear Creek Dental for a consultation on mouthguards in Grande Prairie and reclaim restful nights and healthy mornings. Call us today or book an appointment online to get started!