Oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea works for people who suffer from mild to moderate OSA. Oral appliance therapy is nothing like a CPAP machine and is actually comfortable to wear.

Oral Appliance Therapy the CPAP Alternative

According to Dr. Jack Ringer, a preferred oral appliance therapy specialist, most people who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea give up CPAP therapy because it is very cumbersome.

Although there have been improvements over the years, sufferers are still forced to breathe through a mask that is connected to a hose that is connected to a machine.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

If you follow the Dental Cosmetics Blog, you will know that OSA is a disorder that causes a person to stop breathing up to 30 times every hour while asleep. This happens because the throat is relaxed.

Once relaxed the back of the throat closes causing the person to gasp and choke. OSA is a serious condition, and if left untreated, could cause other health problems.

Although there is no one cause, experts believe that OSA is more common in men, older people, people who are overweight and people who have a large size neck.

OSA and Oral Appliance Therapy

According to Dr. Ringer, who is also the past president and an Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, oral appliance therapy works by gently keeping your mouth open while you sleep. As an oral appliance therapy specialist, Dr. Ringer will choose the best device for your needs.

How Oral Appliance Therapy Works

Made from soft medical plastic, an oral appliance is similar to a retainer or mouth guard and prevents collapse by either supporting your jaw forward or holding the tongue.

Because everyone’s mouth is different, an oral appliance must be custom made by your dentist in Anaheim Hills.

Is Everyone a Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

According to your dentist in Orange County, people who have severe sleep apnea may not see great results with oral appliance therapy. Your primary care physician and a sleep specialist will be able to determine the severity of your obstructive sleep apnea.

If your obstructive sleep apnea is mild to moderate, there are different brands and styles of oral appliances. While some are designed for snoring, others are actually made to improve breathing and keep your passages open. The TAP or Thornton Adjustable Positioner Device along with the Herbst oral appliance improves airway patency.

Some custom made oral appliances enlarge your airways while preventing airway collapse. These types of appliances cover the lower and upper teeth while holding your lower jaw in a forward position.

Oral Appliance Therapy Reduces Your Risk of Disease

Obstructive sleep apnea can lead to heart disease and stroke. OSA can also be a precursor to diabetes. Oral appliance therapy improves your health so you can get a better night’s sleep. Oral appliance therapy can also save your life, especially if you are prone to falling asleep at the wheel.

If you would like more information regarding oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea, call and schedule a no obligation oral appliance therapy consultation with Dr. Ringer.

Your OC dentist is a preferred oral appliance specialist and can help you choose the best device for your needs.

Call for a consultation with your Anaheim Hills dentist today.