Sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that makes it hard for a person to get the rest they need. During the night, a person with sleep apnea does not get enough oxygen, because part of the soft oral tissue and throat relax and block the airway. There are many reasons that are thought to cause this, but the end result is the same. Because this has to do with tissue in the mouth and throat, sleep apnea treatment is actually provided by a dentist rather than another medical professional. Here is what you will need to know about sleep apnea treatment in Kailua-Kona.
Oral Appliance Sleep Apnea Treatment
The most common method of sleep apnea treatment is with an oral appliance, which typically looks and fits like a mouth guard. While CPAP machines used to be the first treatment, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recently approved oral appliances to be the go-to method for treating OSA. Oral appliances are easy to use for anyone, can go with you anywhere, do not make noise, and are very easy to take care of. This is a great solution for sleepers with spouses who cannot stand the noise of a CPAP.
Custom Made Sleep Apnea Appliances
You can buy a sleep apnea appliance over the counter, where it is often referred to as a “boil and bite”. These devices are not FDA approved, and the lack of custom fit may make them close to useless. They may also cause jaw alignment problems.
Custom made sleep apnea appliances are the better solution. Your dentist in Kailua-Kona can help you treat OSA with a mouth appliance that is designed specifically for your mouth. This will be a more comfortable option that is easy to sleep with, and you will be able to choose from a variety of styles to find the best fit for your needs.
Are You Ready For a Better Night’s Sleep?
If you are ready to learn more about sleep apnea treatment, contact us in Kailua-Kona at Yokoyama, DDS by calling our office at 808-322-0101, or contact us online.