Do you struggle with sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea refers to a disorder in which the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses briefly during sleep to temporarily block the airway.
The lack of quality sleep and minor periods of breathing cessation can cause health problems. But what is the best way to treat sleep apnea?
Dr. Frank Henrich specializes in the treatment of sleep disorders and offers oral appliance therapy to eligible patients. This custom-made nylon device is worn over the teeth during sleep to keep the jaw and tongue in a position that prevents tissue collapse and airway blockage associated with sleep apnea.
You can feel more confident pursuing nylon oral appliance therapy when you know more about its advantages. Read on to find three benefits of wearing an oral appliance to address obstructive sleep apnea.
Relieve Sleep Apnea Complications Without Surgery
Sleep apnea can leave patients waking in the night gasping for air and feeling groggy and disoriented in the daytime. Over time, patients can experience a lack of concentration and energy that may impact their lifestyles. And the strain from this disorder can heighten the patients’ risks for serious cardiovascular problems.
Ideally, you will want to find a solution for this disorder that does not require invasive, disruptive, or expensive surgery. An oral appliance from your dentist can accomplish this goal.
The device will push the lower jaw forward and hold it there while you sleep to keep the airway open, stopping sleep apnea. This way, you can resolve uncomfortable symptoms related to this disorder without hassle.
Improve Patient Compliance With Sleep Apnea Treatment
Oral appliance therapy is not the only way to treat sleep apnea, but many patients prefer it to other options like a CPAP machine. This treatment involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth that forces air into the airway as you sleep to keep it open. While this can stop sleep apnea, some people find the machine uncomfortable.
This may mean they skip using this sleep apnea treatment, which can endanger their health and well-being. Your dentist will build an oral appliance on a custom basis, ensuring a comfortable fit over your unique smile.
Then you will not have to worry about the treatment giving you trouble trying to fall asleep. Plus, the custom fit will stay securely to your teeth so that it will not slip out of place during the night.
Patients can feel more encouraged to wear oral appliances thanks to the easy and comfortable fit. Their improved compliance with the therapy will make them more likely to find relief from sleep apnea symptoms.
Durable Nylon Appliance Design
Dentists build oral appliances that treat sleep apnea from nylon because it proves to be more durable than alternative materials like acrylic. It can endure nighttime oral habits like grinding and clenching the teeth better than other materials. But it still feels smooth, thin, and flexible in the mouth for a comfortable fit.
The nylon is also easy to clean, so you can appreciate a simple maintenance routine to care for your appliance. These devices will not last forever. But you can talk to your dentist to find ways to maximize the longevity of your sleep appliance.