Treatment of sleep apnea is huge for general health. There’s a lot of other complications that can arise from it. A lot of patients don’t even know they suffer from it, but getting adequate rest and breathing well can be hugely beneficial in that category. A mandibular advancement device can be a great alternative to a CPAP machine. I think their compliance is a lot better with those. They’re more comfortable, they’re not as bulky, and they’re transportable. So you can take it if you’re fishing or traveling or doing whatever. Patients that successfully wear it, won’t sleep without it. And if for any reason one breaks or it needs to be redone, they’re in like that, getting it fixed because it becomes so accustomed to a good night’s sleep.
Find the Right Treatment for Your Sleep Apnea in Anchorage
Your dental checkup may reveal more than just cavities. It can also be the first step in identifying and treating sleep apnea in Anchorage. Your dentist is trained to recognize the many signs of sleep apnea, such as tooth grinding, jaw clenching, and dry mouth. By treating this condition and finding an appropriate solution, you will:
- Lower your risk of developing serious health conditions
- Keep your mind sharp and alert during the day
- Promote a more positive outlook and better mental health
- Allow you to tackle daily tasks with greater energy
- Help you become more patient and present with loved ones
Call 907-268-2756 for an appointment.
Wake Up to Better Health With a Good Night’s Sleep
At Aurora Family Dentistry, we are your ally in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. During your dental checkup, your dentist can look for oral health signs of sleep apnea, such as tooth grinding or jaw clenching. If your dentist suspects sleep apnea, they will also discuss other symptoms you are experiencing. If necessary, they will have you complete a take-home sleep study to confirm the diagnosis.
Once your apnea is confirmed, your dentist will design an oral appliance called a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) that comfortably keeps your airway open at night. Unlike a CPAP, which can be cumbersome and awkward at best, this device offers numerous benefits:
- Greater Comfort – Your oral appliance will fit comfortably in your mouth. It’s more pleasant to wear during the night and allows you to move freely while sleeping.
- Easier for Travel – This device is compact and easy to transport, making it ideal for travel or when you need to sleep away from home.
- Much Quieter – Your customized sleep apnea appliance is silent. You and your partner can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep without the noise of a CPAP machine.
- Easy Maintenance – Cleaning and maintaining your oral care appliance is simple and takes just a few minutes each day.
Call 907-268-2756 for help with sleep apnea in Anchorage. You can also request an appointment online.
Common Questions About Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when you repeatedly stop breathing while sleeping. It is caused by your air passages becoming blocked by your tongue and other soft tissues in the back of your throat. When they block your airway, you stop breathing for a few seconds before waking up briefly to take in more air. The sleep apnea cycle can repeat itself hundreds of times per night in severe sleep apnea sufferers.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition because it interrupts critical airflow while sleeping. It can leave you feeling lethargic during the day and interfere with your work productivity and your personal life. In addition, sleep apnea has also been linked to several serious health conditions like high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and depression.
CPAP therapy is often the first recommended treatment for sleep apnea. While CPAP is effective, many people have trouble getting used to having air blown through their mouth and nose. A good alternative treatment option is a custom-fit sleep appliance. It will fit comfortably in your mouth while you sleep, gently moving your lower jaw forward to keep your air passages open.