How a sleep dentist manages sleep apnea

Dentists begin with an examination to ensure that oral appliance therapy will treat the sleep apnea. Dentists must evaluate the airway, tongue and jaw, along with the teeth. X-rays might be needed to provide dentists with more information. Dentists then take impressions of the mouth, so the oral device can be fabricated.

The lab can make a mandibular repositioning device or tongue retaining device to treat sleep apnea. A mandibular repositioning device keeps the airway open by moving the jaw to a forward and downward position. This is the most common option. Tongue retaining devices keep the tongue in place, so it does not block the airway.

Once the dentist receives the completed appliance, the patient returns to the office to have it fitted. The appliance might require adjustments to fit properly, but the sleep dentist can do that during the appointment. The dentist explains how to use and care for the device. The dentist might also schedule a second sleep study for the patient. The patient will wear the device during the sleep study to ensure it works.

Proper follow-up care is necessary when treating sleep apnea. Patients go back to the dentist for adjustments every six months for the first year of treatment. The adjustments keep the jaw or tongue in the proper location during sleep. Once the dentist and patient are satisfied with the effectiveness of the device, follow-up care is only required on an annual basis. These visits are referred to as annual assessments.

Patients enjoy various benefits with oral appliance therapy. People often have difficulty using CPAP machines, so compliance improves with oral appliance therapy. The device is portable and does not require electricity to use. The oral appliance is not visible as long as the mouth is closed, and it treats sleep apnea immediately.

If you want to get an oral appliance to treat your sleep apnea, make an appointment with your sleep dentist. Your dentist will evaluate your sleep study results and conduct an examination. An impression will be taken of your mouth, and then a dental lab will fabricate your device. You will schedule follow-up care after you get your device. When you wear it, you should notice the benefits immediately.