Merion Village Dental Blog

Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that can significantly disrupt your sleep and overall health. It often leads to daytime fatigue, irritability, and a higher risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Let’s explore how a custom-made sleep apnea mouth guard works by keeping your airway open during sleep, reducing interruptions, and enhancing your sleep quality.

Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards Can Lead To Healing

Discover how this comfortable, non-invasive solution can help you achieve restful sleep and improve your life. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or struggle with current treatments, learning about the benefits of a mouth guard could be the first step to better health.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to a minute and can occur multiple times an hour. There are three main types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

The most common form, caused by a physical blockage of the airway, usually the collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the throat.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Occurs when the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, it is a combination of OSA and CSA.

Symptoms and Risks of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can manifest through a variety of symptoms, many of which can be debilitating:

Loud snoring

Often the most noticeable symptom, especially for partners.

Episodes Of Breathing Cessation

Observed by another person.

Gasping For Air During Sleep:

Waking up abruptly with shortness of breath.

Daytime Fatigue

Feeling excessively sleepy during the day.

Irritability And Mood Swings

Caused by disrupted sleep cycles.

Difficulty Concentrating

Impaired cognitive functions due to lack of restful sleep.

If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of several serious health problems, including:

Hypertension

High blood pressure.

Heart Disease

Including heart attacks and strokes.

Type 2 Diabetes

Insulin resistance and glucose intolerance.

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.

Liver Problems

Liver function and scarring may increase.

Complications With Medications And Surgery

Especially with general anesthesia.

How a Custom-Made Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard Works

A sleep apnea mouth guard, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD) or a sleep apnea mouthpiece, is a custom-made oral appliance designed to keep your airway open during sleep. Here’s how it works.

Positioning the Jaw

The mouth guard gently repositions your lower jaw (mandible) slightly forward. This adjustment helps to keep the airway open by preventing the soft tissues at the back of the throat from collapsing.

Improving Airflow

By maintaining an open airway, the mouth guard allows for smoother airflow, reducing the number of apneas or hypopneas (partial obstructions) you experience during the night.

Custom Fit for Comfort

Unlike over-the-counter options, a custom-made mouth guard is tailored to fit your mouth perfectly. This ensures maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Benefits of a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

Using a sleep apnea mouth guard offers several advantages, especially for those who struggle with traditional treatments like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.

Non-invasive

Unlike surgical options, a mouth guard is non-invasive and reversible.

Comfortable

Custom-made to fit your mouth, it minimizes discomfort and maximizes effectiveness.

Portable

Easy to carry when traveling, unlike bulky CPAP machines.

Quiet

Unlike CPAP machines, a mouth guard is silent, which can also benefit your sleeping partner.

Easy to Use

Simple to put on and take off, making it user-friendly.

Real-Life Impact: A Patient’s Story

Consider Jane, a 45-year-old accountant from Columbus. Jane had been struggling with daytime fatigue and irritability for years, attributing it to her stressful job. It wasn’t until her partner mentioned her loud snoring and observed that she occasionally stopped breathing during the night that she sought medical advice. Diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, Jane initially tried CPAP therapy but found it uncomfortable and difficult to manage.

Upon visiting Merion Village Dental, Jane was fitted with a custom-made sleep apnea mouth guard. Within weeks, she noticed significant improvements. Jane’s snoring reduced, her energy levels increased, and she felt more focused and less irritable. Most importantly, her partner also started sleeping better, creating a positive impact on their relationship.

Is a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard Right for You?

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or if you’ve been diagnosed but find traditional treatments challenging, a sleep apnea mouth guard might be a viable solution. Here are some indicators that you might benefit from this device.

Snoring

Loud, disruptive snoring could be a sign of sleep apnea.

Daytime Fatigue

Persistent tiredness during the day, despite getting what seems like enough sleep.

Restless Sleep

Frequently waking up during the night, gasping for air, or feeling short of breath.

Getting Started with a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

At Merion Village Dental, we take a personalized approach to treating sleep apnea. Here’s what you can expect during your consultation and treatment process:

Consultation

We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments you’ve tried.

Examination

A thorough dental examination to ensure that a mouth guard is suitable for you.

Custom Impressions

We’ll take precise impressions of your teeth to create a mouth guard that fits perfectly.

Fitting and Adjustment

Once your mouth guard is ready, we’ll ensure it fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments.

Follow-Up Care

Regular check-ups to monitor your progress and make sure your mouth guard continues to work effectively.

Start Your Sleep Apnea Relief With Merion Village Dental

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have a profound impact on your health and quality of life. However, with the right treatment, you can manage it effectively and enjoy restful, restorative sleep.

A custom-made mouth guard could be the key to better sleep and improved health. Schedule a consultation with Merion Village Dental today to learn how our sleep apnea mouthpieces can help you breathe easier and sleep better.