The Good News About Sleep Apnea Treatment
At Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ed Covert and his team have undergone extensive education in sleep medicine with oral appliance therapy. As active members of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), Dr. Covert and his team are dedicated to providing effective, patient-centered treatments for sleep apnea.
Their focus on dental sleep medicine and technological advancements have allowed many Jacksonville, NC residents to find relief from this serious condition. Because sleep apnea is closely linked to oral health, dentists like Dr. Covert are uniquely positioned to offer Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) as an alternative to traditional CPAP.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is emerging as a leading treatment for sleep apnea, especially for those who struggle with CPAP. Unlike CPAP, which forces air through a mask to keep the airway open, OAT uses a custom-fitted oral device to reposition the jaw and prevent airway obstruction during sleep. This device keeps your jaw in an optimal position, ensuring your airway stays open and unobstructed throughout the night.
Unlike surgical options, oral appliances for sleep apnea are noninvasive. There’s no need for surgery or medication—just a comfortable, easy-to-use device that promotes better sleep and improved overall health.
The Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Many patients prefer oral appliances to CPAP for several reasons:
- Portable and discreet: Oral appliances are compact and easy to travel with.
- Comfortable: Unlike CPAP masks, which can be bulky and uncomfortable, oral appliances are custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth.
- Quiet: Oral appliances do not make noise, unlike CPAP machines, which can disturb sleep.
- Simple maintenance: Just brush your appliance, dry it, and store it in its case until your next use.
Many former CPAP users report feeling more comfortable and well-rested after switching to oral appliance therapy. With no need for a noisy machine or uncomfortable mask, you can enjoy sound, uninterrupted sleep.
The OSA-TMD Connection: Dual Benefits of Oral Appliances
Treating sleep apnea with an oral appliance also alleviates Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) symptoms for some patients. TMD, a condition that affects the jaw joint, is often linked to Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Jaw clicking or popping
- Headaches or migraines
- Neck, back, or shoulder pain
Because oral appliances reposition the jaw, many patients experience relief from both sleep apnea and TMD symptoms. This dual benefit makes OAT an even more attractive option for those suffering from both conditions.
Types of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
There are two primary types of oral appliances used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
1. Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRDs)
MRDs resemble sports mouthguards and work by holding the lower jaw forward during sleep. This creates more space at the back of the throat, preventing airway obstruction. MRDs are highly effective at eliminating snoring and ensuring unobstructed breathing. Additionally, MRDs are available for patients with missing teeth.
2. Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
TRDs work by gently holding the tongue in a forward position during sleep, preventing it from falling back and blocking the airway. These devices are made from soft materials and are ideal for patients who prefer a less rigid solution.
ProSomnus EVO: A Game-Changer in Oral Appliances
Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry proudly offers the ProSomnus EVO and ProSomnus EVO Select oral appliances. These advanced devices are designed for maximum comfort and effectiveness, helping patients achieve better sleep quality, increased energy levels, and improved overall health. ProSomnus oral appliances keep the airway open throughout the night, providing reliable, life-changing results for people with sleep apnea.
- Custom-fit: Designed specifically for your mouth, these appliances ensure comfort and effective treatment.
- Durability: ProSomnus appliances are built to last, providing long-term relief from sleep apnea.
- Success rate: Patients using ProSomnus devices report significantly improved sleep quality and energy levels.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Compares to CPAP
Many patients find oral appliance therapy to be a more convenient and comfortable alternative to CPAP. Here’s how they compare:
- CPAP requires wearing a mask connected to a machine, which can be uncomfortable and challenging to adjust to.
- Oral appliances are small, discreet, and don’t involve noisy equipment, making sleeping peacefully through the night easier.
- Some CPAP users report bloating and discomfort due to the constant airflow, while oral appliances don’t cause these side effects.
If you’re tired of struggling with CPAP, oral appliance therapy might be the ideal solution for you.
Seeking Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Jacksonville, NC
If you or a loved one are struggling with sleep apnea, consider Oral Appliance Therapy at Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry. Our team is dedicated to improving your sleep and overall health. For more information, call us at (910) 353-5171.
We also specialize in treating TMD, which frequently accompanies Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Using advanced technology and a personalized approach, we diagnose and manage TMJ dysfunction, providing relief from associated pain and discomfort.
