How An Appliance Treats Sleep Apnea

rowlett sleep apneaWhen you have a serious disorder like sleep apnea, this could leave you feeling exhausted during the day and could even impact your memory and heart health! But our team can help with a custom oral appliance. In today’s blog, your Rowlett, TX, dentist talks about how we can use a custom appliance to treat sleep apnea.

The Causes of Sleep Apnea

How does a person develop a disorder like sleep apnea? The issue could be related to a large neck circumference, sinus and allergy issues, deviated septum, or issues with the growth of certain oral structures. Excess alcohol consumption could be a factor too. The disorder means that while you sleep at night, the soft tissues in the back of your mouth and in your throat will collapse, which cuts off airflow and causes you to stop breathing briefly until the brain wakes you. While you usually do not remember these waking episodes, this can happen multiple times a night and leave you exhausted during the day.

The Warning Signs of Trouble

People with sleep apnea may feel irritable and moody during the day. They could have issues with memory or concentration, and could feel tired. Waking in the night gasping for air or choking, along with chronic snoring, could also be warning signs. Don’t ignore these potential warning signs, reach out to our team for a diagnosis and to discuss possible treatments. Overwise, the lack of sleep could weaken your immune system so you are more susceptible to illness. The stress on your cardiovascular system could also increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke or heart attack.

Help With a Custom Appliance

When our team diagnoses the presence of sleep apnea, we can offer a unique treatment to bring relief. Instead of a CPAP machine, we can create a custom oral appliance based on detailed digital images and impressions we take of your smile. The device fits like a mouthguard and is worn at night, shifting your jaw and ringer forward to prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so you sleep without interruption. You can also help by resting on your side, keeping your bedroom dark and cool, avoiding screens in the hour before bed, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.

If you have any questions about how we can help you sleep better with a custom and comfortable oral appliance, then contact our team today to learn more. You deserve a good night’s rest, and with a simple and effective oral appliance we can make that a possibility!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT SOON

Our team wants to protect you from the complications of an untreated sleep disorder. To learn more about how we can help you enjoy a better night’s rest, call Rodem Tree Dental in Rowlett, TX, today at 972-475-2321.