When You Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, We May Be Able to Help
Posted on 3/3/2025 by Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin Office |
 Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax during sleep, causing the throat to collapse and block airflow. This results in frequent pauses in breathing, or shallow breathing, which disrupts your sleep and can lead to a number of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
If you have been diagnosed with OSA, it is important to see a doctor to discuss treatment options. One potential treatment option is oral appliance therapy, which involves wearing a custom-made oral appliance while you sleep. Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
As an expert Oral Surgeon, I am committed to providing my patients with the highest quality of care. If you have OSA and are interested in learning more about oral appliance therapy, I would be happy to schedule a consultation with you to discuss your individual needs.
What are Oral Appliances?
Oral appliances are small, custom-made devices that fit inside the mouth, similar to a mouthguard or retainer. They are worn during sleep and work by gently shifting the jaw and tongue forward, which opens up the airway and allows for unobstructed breathing.
Oral appliances can be a very effective treatment for mild to moderate OSA. They are often more comfortable and easier to tolerate than other treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).
What are the benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy?
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Improved sleep quality: Oral appliances can help you get a more restful and restorative night's sleep. |
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Reduced daytime fatigue: OSA can make you feel tired and sluggish during the day. Oral appliances can help improve your energy levels and concentration. |
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Decreased snoring: Snoring is a common symptom of OSA. Oral appliances can help reduce or eliminate snoring. |
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Improved overall health: OSA is associated with a number of serious health problems. Oral appliances can help improve your overall health by reducing your risk of these conditions. |
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Comfortable and easy to use: Oral appliances are small and lightweight, and most people find them comfortable to wear. They are also relatively easy to use and care for. |
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Non-invasive treatment: Unlike some other treatments for OSA, oral appliances are non-invasive. |
Who is a Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?
Not everyone is a candidate for oral appliance therapy. However, it may be a good option for people with mild to moderate OSA who:
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Cannot tolerate CPAP therapy |
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Have mild to moderate OSA |
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Have a normal bite and healthy teeth |
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Are committed to using the appliance as directed |
What to expect during Oral Appliance Therapy
If you decide to pursue oral appliance therapy, you will first need to be fitted for a custom-made oral appliance. This process typically involves taking impressions of your teeth and jaw, and then sending them to a lab where the appliance will be fabricated. Once your appliance is ready, you will need to come back to the office to be fitted and receive instructions on how to use and care for it.
Oral appliance therapy is not a quick fix. It may take some time to adjust to wearing the appliance and to find the optimal settings. However, with regular use and follow-up appointments, most people find that oral appliance therapy can significantly improve their sleep and overall health.
Restoration Dentistry: Restoring Oral Health for Optimal Treatment
If you have OSA and are considering oral appliance therapy, it is important to have a healthy mouth. This means having all of your teeth present and healthy, as well as having a healthy bite. If you are missing teeth, have dental decay, or have other oral health problems, these issues will need to be addressed before you can start oral appliance therapy.
I am a skilled and experienced oral surgeon, and I can provide a full range of restorative dentistry services, such as dental implants, dentures, and bridges. These services can help to restore your oral health and make you a better candidate for oral appliance therapy.
Conclusion:
If you have OSA, I encourage you to schedule a consultation with me. We will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and other risk factors to determine if oral appliance therapy is right for you.
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