How Oral Appliances Work for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common condition that causes interrupted breathing during sleep. This can lead to many problems, like daytime tiredness and an increased risk of health issues. One of the most effective ways to treat sleep apnea is by using oral appliances. These devices are designed to keep our airways open while we sleep, helping us breathe easier and get better rest.


Oral appliances are custom-made devices that fit in our mouths much like a sports mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer. They work by repositioning the lower jaw or tongue to ensure that our airway stays open. Unlike other treatments that can be bulky or difficult to use, oral appliances are small, portable, and easy to adapt to.


In this article, we will explore what oral appliances are and how they work to manage sleep apnea. We will also look into the benefits of using these devices and how Dr. Criss can fit us with the perfect oral appliance for our needs. This guide aims to provide clear and useful information to help us understand how oral appliances can improve our sleep and overall health.


What Are Oral Appliances?


Oral appliances are custom-made devices that we wear in our mouths while we sleep. They are designed to treat sleep apnea and snoring by keeping our airways open. These appliances resemble mouthguards or orthodontic retainers and are typically crafted from durable, comfortable materials.


These devices work by repositioning the lower jaw or tongue. By doing this, oral appliances prevent the airway from collapsing, which helps us breathe better during sleep. Unlike other sleep apnea treatments that can be bulky or noisy, oral appliances are small, portable, and easy to wear.


Oral appliances are popular because they are simple to use and maintain. They are a great option for people who struggle with other treatments or prefer a less intrusive solution. Plus, we can easily take them with us when we travel, making it convenient to manage our sleep apnea wherever we go.


How Oral Appliances Work for Sleep Apnea


Oral appliances work by adjusting the position of our lower jaw or tongue to keep the airway open. This is essential for preventing the pauses in breathing that occur with sleep apnea. By maintaining an open airway, these devices help us get a more restful and uninterrupted sleep.


When we sleep, the muscles in our throat relax. For some of us, this relaxation can cause the airway to become blocked, leading to obstructive sleep apnea. Oral appliances counteract this by pulling the lower jaw slightly forward or by holding the tongue in place. This prevents the airway from collapsing and allows for normal breathing.


Dr. Criss customizes each oral appliance to fit our mouth perfectly. This ensures maximum comfort and effectiveness. The precise fit not only keeps the appliance in place throughout the night but also makes it comfortable to wear, ensuring we stick to the treatment and improve our sleep quality. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Criss help in adjusting the appliance as needed, making sure it continues to work well over time.


Benefits of Using Oral Appliances


Using oral appliances for sleep apnea offers many benefits that can improve our overall health and quality of life. Here are some of the key advantages:


1. Better Sleep Quality: One of the biggest benefits of oral appliances is that they help us achieve better sleep. By preventing the airway from collapsing, these devices reduce interruptions in breathing, allowing for more restful and uninterrupted sleep.


2. Increased Comfort: Oral appliances are custom-made to fit our mouths, making them comfortable to wear. Unlike other bulky treatments, these devices are small, easy to use, and do not make noise, ensuring that both we and our bed partners can sleep peacefully.


3. Portability: Oral appliances are compact and easy to travel with. We can take them anywhere, which ensures that we can manage our sleep apnea effectively no matter where we are.


4. Improved Daytime Alertness: With better sleep at night, we wake up feeling more refreshed and alert during the day. This helps us to function better at work or school and enjoy our daily activities without feeling tired all the time.


5. Health Benefits: Consistently using an oral appliance can reduce risks associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues. Regular use of these devices promotes overall well-being.


Getting Fitted for an Oral Appliance with Dr. Criss


The process of getting fitted for an oral appliance is straightforward and simple, ensuring that we receive a device tailored specifically to our needs. Dr. Criss helps us through each step of the fitting process.


1. Initial Consultation: During the first visit, Dr. Criss will discuss our symptoms and medical history. This helps determine if an oral appliance is the right treatment for our sleep apnea.


2. Dental Impressions: To create a custom-fit appliance, Dr. Criss will take detailed impressions of our teeth and mouth. These impressions are sent to a specialized lab where the oral appliance is crafted based on our unique dental structure.


3. Fitting the Appliance: Once the oral appliance is ready, we return to the office for fitting. Dr. Criss ensures that the device fits perfectly and makes any necessary adjustments. He will show us how to properly wear and care for the appliance.


4. Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Criss are important to ensure that the appliance continues to fit well and is effective. During these visits, Dr. Criss may make further adjustments and address any concerns we might have.


By following this process, we can be confident that our oral appliance will work effectively to manage our sleep apnea and improve our sleep quality.


Conclusion


Oral appliances play a crucial role in managing sleep apnea, providing a comfortable and effective solution to help us breathe better at night. From understanding what these devices are and how they work to getting fitted with the help of Dr. Criss, we can find the relief we need to enjoy restful sleep and improved health.


Choosing to use an oral appliance brings many benefits, such as better sleep quality, increased comfort, and improved daytime alertness. These devices are easy to use and maintain, making them a practical option for managing sleep apnea. With the guidance of Dr. Criss, we can ensure that our appliance fits perfectly and works effectively.


If you think an oral appliance might be the right solution for your sleep apnea, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Black Hills Sleep and TMJ. Our Rapid City sleep center is ready to help you get the best night's sleep possible. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward better sleep and better health!

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