Have you been suffering from obstructive sleep apnea? At Surdel Dental Centre, we know it can impact many aspects of your physical and mental wellbeing. Our Delta dentists explain how dental appliances can help to reduce your symptoms - and help you get more rest.
If you find that mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea is preventing you from getting a full night’s rest, ask your dentist about this issue - he or she may be able to recommend appropriate solutions to help reduce your symptoms.
The primary function of sleep apnea appliances is to gently hold your tongue and jaw towards the front of your mouth to help keep anything from blocking your airway. These easy-to-use appliances fit over your teeth, and you would put them on as you get ready for bed.
There are two basic types of dental appliances that can help sleep apnea sufferers: adjustable appliances that are custom-made to fit your mouth’s shape and size, and fixed dental appliances (which are not adjustable but may help to reduce symptoms of sleep apnea).
Of course, because you’ll be wearing this dental appliance while you sleep, comfort is critical. If your appliance isn’t comfortable enough that you can sleep comfortably while wearing it, you may avoid putting it in and this defeats the purpose of having one. Many patients find custom-fitted dental appliances are more comfortable to wear, and work properly.
If you find that your current sleep apnea dental appliance is uncomfortable to wear, mention it to your dentist during your next appointment. They may be able to recommend a more comfortable solution.
However, keep in mind that you’ll need to take some time to get used to any type of dental appliance. When you first start to wear it, you may experience some minor discomfort in your jaw or challenges with chewing. That said, if you keep using the appliance, these issues should quickly clear up.