Treating Sleep Apnea Without CPAP

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) impacts millions of people in the United States, and unless treated, could lead to not only daytime exhaustion, but issues for your heart health too! While effective, CPAP machines could be cumbersome and difficult for patients, which is why your Austin, MN, dentists will provide a custom-made sleep appliance as an alternative!

The Symptoms and Factors Behind OSA

People with OSA often report daytime drowsiness, trouble staying awake behind the wheel, depression and moodiness, dry mouth and headaches, and trouble remaining focused on tasks at work or school. The disorder means that as they sleep, the tissues in the back of the mouth and in the throat become too relaxed, collapsing and cutting off airflow. The person actually stops breathing several times a night, the brain interrupting the sleep cycle to help them resume breathing once more. Even though the sufferer may assume he or she slept well, they were actually woken multiple times. Factors behind it include obesity, age (majority sufferers are 55 and older), neck circumferences, excess alcohol consumption, allergy and sinus issues, deviated septum, and chronic snoring.

The Downsides of CPAP

A CPAP machine helps people breathe by forcing air through the nose and mouth. The person wears a mask over the snore and mouth which is connected to a machine via a plastic hose. While effective, it is quite loud and often prevents people from resting well. For that reason, we’re happy to offer an alternative! After all, treatment is crucial, as over time the disorder could strain the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness, and could also put pressure on your heart health, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

Treatment With a Custom Appliance

Treatment will start with our team taking detailed impressions and images of your smile, using the information we gather to design and create an appliance. The oral appliance fits like a nightguard and is worn as you sleep. The device helps ensure you breathe without interruption, so you enjoy a good night’s rest. If you have any questions about treating your OSA with a custom sleep appliance, or if you regularly experience one or more of the symptoms we discussed, then contact our team today.

YOUR AUSTIN, MN, DENTISTS TALK SLEEP TREATMENT

A good night’s rest is good for your quality of life, as well as your heart health. To learn more about our custom oral appliances or what you can do to enjoy a better night’s rest, then schedule an appointment with the Potach and Mitchell Dental Clinic, contact our Austin, MN dental office today by calling 507-437-6312. Our office welcomes patients from Austin, MN and surrounding communities.