What is sleep apnea, and how can an airway dentist help?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder where a person’s breathing pauses repeatedly or becomes shallow. These breathing interruptions can lead to daytime fatigue, poor concentration, and long-term health risks like heart disease and high blood pressure.
While many people think of sleep apnea as a medical issue, airway dentists play an essential role in identifying and managing this condition. By recognizing early signs and offering non-invasive treatment options, dental professionals can help patients breathe better and sleep more soundly.
Oral Appliances
One of the most common treatments for OSA is the use of oral appliances that reposition the tongue and jaw to keep the airway open during sleep.
Mandibular Advancement Devices: This popular oral appliance brings the lower jaw and tongue forward to give more room for airflow at the back of the throat. It fits snugly over the top and bottom teeth.
Tongue-Stabilizing Devices (TSDs): These over-the-counter options use suction to pull the tongue forward and keep it in place during sleep. TSDs are a great option for weaker teeth that can’t hold a mandibular advancement device in place.
Other Treatments
Depending on the severity of the sleep apnea, an airway dentist may offer other solutions outside of oral appliances:
Myofunctional therapy: A dental professional can provide targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles in the tongue and face. This therapy helps to retrain the brain to adopt correct breathing patterns and tongue posture.
PAP therapy: Airway dentists can refer you to sleep specialists who provide Positive Airway Pressure therapy that works in conjunction with oral appliances and surgical interventions.
Nasal and Sinus Treatments: Conditions such as deviated septums and chronic sinusitis can obstruct breathing. An airway dentist might suggest allergy medications or surgical procedures to fix the sinuses.
Orthognathic Surgery: When there are significant issues with the jaw structure, a dental professional may recommend corrective jaw surgery. Surgery can reposition the jaw, dramatically improving the airway’s function.
At Cascade Dental Care, we specialize in airway dentistry. For better sleep quality and overall health, call now to schedule an appointment!