Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person’s breathing to momentarily stop throughout the night, resulting in brief awakenings. For people with obstructive apnea, this cessation in breathing results from a blocked airway. In some cases, a dental appliance can keep the airway open, allowing the person to sleep without disruption.
Dental oral appliances are worn at night while sleeping and serve the purpose of forcing the jaw and tongue into a position that helps keep the airway open. There are several different types of devices that patients can choose from. Some models are like retainers made from plastic or a more flexible material worn over the top and bottom teeth. Called mandibular advancement devices, this type of appliance moves the jaw forward. An alternative option is a tongue retaining device, which holds the patient’s tongue in either a plastic or silicone shell.
It is recommended that patients visit a dentist to have a dental appliance made. Unlike products purchased over the counter, devices provided by a dentist are custom-fitted to the patient’s mouth. This can increase comfort and effectiveness when worn on a consistent basis.
While some people find relief from apnea-related symptoms with a dental appliance, not everyone can benefit from this treatment option. There are several factors that determine if a person is a good candidate for this alternative therapy.
A dental oral appliance is only a suitable treatment option for people with mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea. When a person is diagnosed with sleep apnea, a rating is given based on the apnea-hypopnea index. This scale takes into account how many apnea episodes a person experiences divided by the total number of hours of sleep. A person with an AHI of 30 or more is considered to have severe sleep apnea. For these individuals, a CPAP machine or other treatment is required to keep the airway open.
For people with a temporomandibular joint disorder or sensitive jaws, an oral appliance may worsen symptoms. This issue is most present in people who use a mandibular advancement device as the forward jaw position can lead to general soreness and headaches.
If a person is having difficulties using a continuous positive airway pressure machine to address their sleep apnea, an oral device can be a more comfortable treatment option. CPAP machines make a noise when turned on, which can be disruptive for the person using the therapy and any sleeping partners. Some people also find wearing a full mask hard to adjust to, especially if it is causing any facial dryness or sores.
Speaking with a dentist is a good way to learn if using a dental appliance is right for you. If your sleep apnea is moderate and TMD is not an issue, an oral device can provide a comfortable solution that does not require the use of a noisy machine or intrusive mask.
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