Orthodontic Treatments for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a troubling condition. But most treatments, like CPAPs, are uncomfortable, and many patients skip using them despite the risks.
Luckily, there are several orthodontic treatments for sleep apnea available. For many, the orthodontic options are far more attractive when compared to traditional treatment options of CPAP and BiPAP machines, and are custom fitted to your mouth for added comfort.
Orthodontic Options for Treating Sleep Apnea
- Jaw Alignment Devices
One of the most effective orthodontic solutions for sleep apnea is jaw alignment. A simple mouth guard designed for patients with sleep apnea pulls the lower jaw forward slightly, thereby opening the airways more and reducing the incidences of apnea. With a custom-made mandibular repositioning device (MRD), you’ll be able to keep your jaw in a position that clears your throat and makes it easier to breathe.
- Tongue Repositioning
There are also other devices that can be used to reposition your tongue during sleep. These devices use a very gentle suction that still allows you to swallow freely, and positions your tongue in a way that opens your breathing passages.
- Braces for Sleep Apnea
Sometimes sleep apnea can be caused in part by the misalignment of teeth and/or jaw positioning. In this instance, braces may help alleviate some of the symptoms by correcting the alignment of the jaw and teeth. More often braces are seen as a preventative approach as opposed to treating existing sleep apnea.
Find Out More About Using Orthodontics to Control Sleep Apnea
These are only some of the options available to you using orthodontics. The decision of which to use depends primarily on the severity of your sleep apnea, and what is most comfortable for you as the patient.
At ReMarkable Smiles, we are able to offer simple, discreet and effective sleep apnea treatment plans for each of our patients. If you’d like to find out more about what we can offer you, please call our office at (949) 770-8011. Our team is standing by ready to help you find a solution to your sleep apnea.