Sleep Apnea

How do dentists treat sleep apnea?

Dentists treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) through various methods, including Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). The two main types of OAT are Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) and Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs), with MADs being more common. These devices keep the airway open during sleep, either by advancing the lower jaw or holding the tongue forward. Customization of these appliances to the individual patient’s dental structure is crucial for effectiveness and comfort.

Regular follow-up visits allow dentists to adjust the fit and function of the devices. Additionally, dentists may recommend oral appliance therapy with other treatments like CPAP for severe cases and advise on lifestyle changes to manage sleep apnea symptoms better. Trained in dental sleep medicine, these professionals provide a valuable alternative to CPAP machines for many patients.

How can a dentist tell if you have sleep apnea?

Dentists can identify sleep apnea signs during routine exams by reviewing a patient’s medical history for symptoms like loud snoring and daytime sleepiness. They observe physical signs such as enlarged tonsils, a large tongue, or a small jaw that might narrow the airway, along with teeth marks on the tongue and enamel wear from teeth grinding, which is common in sleep apnea patients. Dentists discuss sleep habits with patients to spot any disturbances and refer those they suspect of having sleep apnea to a sleep specialist for a definitive diagnosis via a sleep study. They may also use screening tools like the Epworth Sleepiness Scale or the STOP-Bang Questionnaire to assess risk factors and symptoms, helping to diagnose and manage sleep apnea early.

Do mouthpieces work for sleep apnea?

Yes, oral appliances, including mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue retaining devices (TRDs), offer an effective treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially for patients who can’t tolerate CPAP therapy. These mouthpieces adjust the jaw or tongue position to keep the airway open during sleep. They often lead to significant symptom improvement, better sleep quality, and reduced daytime sleepiness. While CPAP is more effective in reducing apnea episodes, oral appliances have higher compliance rates due to their convenience and comfort, making them practically more effective for some patients. However, these devices must be custom-fitted by a specialized dentist and require regular follow-ups to ensure effectiveness and monitor for side effects. Oral appliances are a preferred choice for many, but severe cases of sleep apnea might need additional treatments.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Common symptoms include loud snoring, episodes of stopped breathing observed by another person, abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking, morning headache, difficulty staying asleep (insomnia), and excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia).

Can sleep apnea go away on its own?

Sleep apnea rarely goes away without treatment. Lifestyle changes can alleviate symptoms in mild cases, but moderate to severe sleep apnea usually requires ongoing treatment.