Should I See a Dentist for Sleep Apnea?
Yes, dental professionals can help evaluate and treat patients suffering with mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Our Plantation, FL, sleep apnea dentists in particular, can introduce you to a custom mouthpiece that’s worn at night to ensure proper airflow. This form of maskless sleep apnea treatment, like traditional methods, is necessary if other negative health consequences are to be prevented.
Here’s how our team can help you rest easier.
The Dental Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea
If you’ve received a sleep apnea diagnosis, your first thought might be about a CPAP machine. While CPAP remains an effective solution, it’s not the only option. For people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, can be a highly effective and more comfortable alternative. As mentioned above, our local family dentists can design treatments that help keep your airway open at night without the need for a bulky mask.
We’ll start with a sleep apnea screening to assess your airway and bite alignment. Communication with your physician may also play into our development of a treatment plan. In many cases, this means creating a custom sleep apnea oral appliance that gently repositions your lower jaw to keep your airway clear while you sleep. This type of treatment can significantly improve sleep quality without the noise or inconvenience of a CPAP.
Why Oral Appliances Are Worth Considering
Any sleep apnea oral appliance we create is going to be tailored specifically to your teeth and jaw for maximum comfort and effectiveness. Unlike over-the-counter , these devices are precision-fitted to ensure proper jaw positioning and a secure fit throughout the night. This personalized approach is a major reason why many patients who have struggled with CPAP find success with oral appliance therapy.
When in place, these devices work to hold your jaw slightly forward, which helps prevent airway collapse and reduces snoring and apneic episodes. Many patients find that treating sleep apnea this way feels less invasive, is easier to travel with, and is far more sustainable for nightly use. It’s a sleep apnea treatment option that fits into your life rather than disrupting it.
What Goes Into a Sleep Apnea Evaluation?
When you visit our dentists, we’ll review your sleep apnea diagnosis (if an assessment was performed elsewhere), take a closer look at your oral health, and examine the way your jaw, teeth, and airway function together. We may also request additional information from a sleep physician that you might’ve seen to ensure your care is coordinated and tailored to your needs.
Once it’s determined you’re a candidate for an oral appliance, impressions of your teeth are taken, and the appliance is custom-fabricated for a precise fit. Follow-up appointments are essential to fine-tune the device, monitor your progress, and make adjustments if needed. This is what preventive dental care is all about: keeping your oral health in check while ensuring your sleep apnea treatment remains effective.
The Benefits of Seeing a Dentist for Sleep Apnea
One of the biggest advantages of coming to our Plantation, FL, dental office for sleep apnea treatment is the personalized nature of care. Our dentists can address not only your airway but also how your bite, jaw joints, and teeth work together. This means your treatment is designed to solve the root of the problem while maintaining your oral health.
Because the appliance is small, quiet, and easy to clean, patients often find they’re more consistent with nightly use. This consistency is critical for long-term success when treating this condition. By investing in a sleep apnea mouth guard designed by a dental professional vs. one that’s store-bought, you’re more likely to stick with treatment, and more likely to feel the difference in your energy, focus, and overall well-being.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea or suspect you’re struggling with it, don’t delay seeking care. Our sleep apnea dentists in Plantation serving Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, can create a custom treatment plan that works for your lifestyle so you sleep more soundly, breathe more easily, and reduce your risk of long-term health issues. Call Barr Dental Group today at (954) 327-7400 to request an appointment.