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Do I Need an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea in Dunwoody?

April 4, 2017

Filed under: Uncategorized — sleepdunwoodyteam @ 4:35 pm

Discover the benefits of an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Dunwoody.

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects roughly 25 million adult Americans. However, it is estimated, 75% of those with the condition remain undiagnosed. When the disorder is left untreated, serious and potentially deadly health complications develop. In addition to decreased sleep and a poor quality of life, your oral and overall health are impacted. You develop an increased risk for tooth decay. Not to mention, the condition can result in cardiovascular disease. With the complications of the disorder quite diverse, you need effective treatment for sleep apnea in Dunwoody. Among the most preferred treatment involves an oral appliance.

Why Do I Need Treatment for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea results when an obstruction in the airway causes frequent pauses in breathing throughout the night. The lack of oxygen significantly impacts your overall health. Over time, you are likely to develop cardiovascular disease and cognitive complications. Your quality of life drastically declines as sleep deprivation and mood changes occur.

However, your oral health is also impacted. Often, those with the condition sleep with their mouth open. This causes the mouth to become dry. When you lack proper amounts of saliva, it can lead to tooth decay. In addition, the National Sleep Foundation reports that the sleep disorder can also lead to grinding of the teeth, known as bruxism. This causes damage to the teeth from the added pressure.

Do I Need an Oral Appliance?

You need an effective option to treat sleep apnea. Although an oral appliance is not necessary, it remains the most preferred treatment solution. You could use a CPAP machine, which delivers a steady stream of air through a mask that is worn over the nose. However, while the treatment is effective, it does come with many disadvantages. An oral appliance offers more comfort and freedom while effectively treating mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.

An oral appliance is a custom-fit device that is worn over the teeth, similar to a mouthguard. The device will reposition your tongue and jaw to keep the airways open. In addition, it protects the teeth from the pressure of bruxism.

When compared to a CPAP machine, many have come to prefer the simplicity of the appliances. They are more comfortable and offer more freedom because you do not have to be hooked up to a machine all night. Overall, the appliances offer added convenience without compromising the effectiveness of treatment.

Which is the Right Treatment for Me?

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, an oral appliance is effective for treating mild cases of sleep apnea and chronic snoring. However, to ensure this is the right option for you, you will need to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeff Rodgers. He will evaluate your sleep disorder, sleep habits, and preferences to develop an appropriate and effective solution.

If an oral appliance is the right option for you, he offers multiple options to help you regain your quality of sleep. To learn more about oral appliance therapy, contact our office today.

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