Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. It can have serious health implications if left untreated. While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is often the primary treatment for sleep apnea, dentistry plays a crucial role in providing alternative and adjunctive treatment options.
One of the most effective dental treatments for sleep apnea is the use of oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or dental sleep devices. These devices are custom-made and fit in the mouth, similar to a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer. The purpose of these devices is to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.
MADs work by advancing the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues at the back of the throat, allowing for improved airflow. These devices are comfortable, easy to wear, and can significantly reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms, such as snoring and interruptions in breathing.
Dental professionals, specifically dentists with expertise in sleep medicine or dental sleep medicine, are trained to evaluate patients for sleep apnea and provide appropriate oral appliance therapy. They work in collaboration with sleep medicine specialists to ensure comprehensive care for patients with sleep-disordered breathing.
The process of getting an oral appliance begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history and a physical examination of the mouth and airway. Dental impressions and sometimes digital scans are taken to create a custom-fitted device that suits the patient's unique oral anatomy. Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the device and make any necessary adjustments.
In addition to MADs, dentistry also plays a role in addressing certain anatomical factors that contribute to sleep apnea. For example, some individuals may have enlarged tonsils or excess tissue in the throat that obstructs the airway. In such cases, surgical procedures, such as tonsillectomy or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), may be performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons to help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms.
It is important to note that the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea should always involve collaboration between dentists, sleep medicine specialists, and other healthcare providers.
Dentists Dublin in city centre play a crucial role in identifying patients who may be at risk for sleep apnea, conducting initial screenings, and providing appropriate referrals for further diagnosis and treatment.
