Do I Need a Sleep Apnea Nightguard?

Did you know that sleep apnea is an oral health problem? Your dentist can treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in their office to prevent future health problems and help you sleep soundly at night. Sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the mouth collapse, blocking the airway. Patients with sleep apnea may find themselves waking up to breathe. Sleep apnea can occur tens or hundreds of times at night. Many patients may think that CPAP machines are the only option for their sleep apnea. However, we often recommend nightguards for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Here you can learn more about what sleep apnea nightguards can do for you in our Plano, TX dental office.

Sleep Apnea Nightguard FAQs in Plano, TX

Read answers to popular questions about sleep apnea nightguards:

How do sleep apnea nightguards work?

Sleep apnea nightguards are custom-fit oral appliances that keep the airway open. Wearing the device at night helps reposition the jaw forward. The nightguard also prevents the tissues from collapsing and blocking the airway.

Am I a candidate for a sleep apnea nightguard?

Sleep apnea oral appliances are the best option for patients who do not have severe sleep apnea. In the most severe cases, patients need to use a CPAP machine. CPAP machines supply continuous airflow directly through the airway. They apply enough pressure to keep the airway open.

How do I know if I need sleep apnea treatment?

Do you find yourself waking up to breathe? Are you prone to morning headaches? You may need sleep apnea treatment. Several risk factors for sleep apnea include excess weight, old age, and heart problems. Patients who drink or use tobacco products are also more at risk of developing sleep apnea.

Are sleep apnea nightguards comfortable?

Because our sleep apnea oral appliances are customized to each patient, they feel comfortable. It may take time for patients to get accustomed to wearing a nightguard during sleep but soon they will find it easy to sleep with their oral appliance. Most of the time, patients who wear sleep apnea stop snoring which is one of the most disruptive symptoms of sleep apnea.

How can a dentist treat sleep apnea?

Patients with mild sleep apnea benefit from treatment in our office. We can take custom dental impressions to create a nightguard that fits you perfectly. Custom-made nightguards affect the airway and help patient minimize their symptoms.

Have you noticed symptoms of sleep apnea? Request a dental appointment with Dr. Mark Sowell and his dental team today online or call (972) 382-6855. Please let our dentists know if you have any remaining questions about sleep apnea or oral appliances. We are always here to help.