Sleep Appliance Therapy at Knoxville Orthodontics

Sleep Appliance Therapy is a non-surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. It involves using a custom-fitted oral appliance worn during sleep to help keep the airway open and prevent the collapse of the soft tissues at the back of the throat that can cause breathing difficulties during sleep. 

At Knoxville Orthodontics, the appliance is designed to fit comfortably in the mouth, similar to a mouthguard or dental retainer. It gently repositions the lower jaw, tongue, and other soft tissues to keep the airway open and prevent snoring and apnea. Sleep Appliance Therapy is a clinically-proven treatment option for mild to moderate OSA. It can be used as an alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which involves wearing a mask over the nose and mouth that delivers pressurized air to keep the airway open.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that causes patients to stop breathing throughout the night temporarily. This disrupts the patient’s sleep, leading to other health problems, including an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. 

This condition is caused by an obstruction in the airway that prevents a patient from breathing properly during the night. This can be due to excess tissues in the back of the mouth or throat or even the tongue falling backward and blocking the airway. The condition is common in overweight patients with extra tissue around their necks, making breathing harder at night. These patients are also more likely to have severe snoring problems as well. 

Left untreated, patients with sleep apnea are at risk for serious health complications. Since their sleep is frequently interrupted through the night, they are likelier to feel tired during the day and experience frequent mood swings and fatigue. Additionally, they may suffer from chronic headaches or feel highly sleepy while driving or at work. Patients who undergo this often may be at risk for accidents in the workplace or on the roads. 

If you have obstructive sleep apnea, your dentist may be able to fit you with an oral appliance to help keep your airway clear while you sleep. The device will position your jaw to keep your airways open and prevent them from collapsing. 

The Benefits of Sleep Appliance Therapy

Comfort

The custom-fitted oral appliance is designed to fit comfortably in the mouth and does not interfere with regular sleep movements. Sleep appliance therapy is a non-surgical and non-invasive treatment option.

Improved Sleep

Sleep Appliance Therapy can enhance sleep quality by reducing snoring and interruptions in breathing during sleep. Sleep Appliance Therapy can help reduce daytime sleepiness and improve energy levels by improving sleep quality. 

Improved Overall Health

Sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. Sleep appliance therapy can reduce the risk of developing these health problems by effectively treating sleep apnea.

Many patients use oral sleep appliances because they are comfortable and have no side effects. To learn more, visit the best orthodontist in Knoxville, TN, Knoxville Orthodontics at one of our three locations. or give us a call for the best dental care.