Patients experiencing the condition known as sleep apnea suffer from periods of shallow respiration or even no respiration while they are sleeping. Some patients are recommended to use a CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure), but this isn't appropriate for everyone. The use of dental appliances for sleep apnea is another approach which is simple and can also be effective for establishing normals respiratory patterns.
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.
Other assessment measures may also be needed in order to design a properly fitting device for the patient. A second set of impressions will be taken and sent to a laboratory where they will be used in the manufacture of the appliance itself. Once the device is completed, the patient will need to try it on to see if any adjustments will be needed.
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.
Wearing the device will normally cause the jaw to shift increasingly forward. This is usually apparent by six months or more of appliance use. This effect is intended as it increases the safety and effectiveness of the device.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea can be quite effective and are a good option for patients who do not wish to rely on a CPAP machine each night. It's always a good idea to consult a dental professional when seeking this kind of treatment, in order to get the most suitable device for the patient. In some cases, changes in treatment are needed for a better outcome.
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.
Other assessment measures may also be needed in order to design a properly fitting device for the patient. A second set of impressions will be taken and sent to a laboratory where they will be used in the manufacture of the appliance itself. Once the device is completed, the patient will need to try it on to see if any adjustments will be needed.
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.
Wearing the device will normally cause the jaw to shift increasingly forward. This is usually apparent by six months or more of appliance use. This effect is intended as it increases the safety and effectiveness of the device.
After several weeks of treatment, the patient will normally attend a second sleep study to evaluate how effective it has been. He or she should be sure to undergo this procedure at the original facility where the first assessments were done, as it will be easier to compare results. If an improvement is noted, the therapy is presumed to be working and no changes are necessary.
Dental appliances for sleep apnea can be quite effective and are a good option for patients who do not wish to rely on a CPAP machine each night. It's always a good idea to consult a dental professional when seeking this kind of treatment, in order to get the most suitable device for the patient. In some cases, changes in treatment are needed for a better outcome.
About the Author:
Read more about Patients Using Dental Appliances For Sleep Apnea Can Experience Relief visiting our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment