Q | What is the connection between my dentist and sleep apnea?
A | The link between sleep apnea and dentists is that sleep apnea can be treated with an oral appliance, which is a device worn in the mouth during sleep to help keep the airway open. These oral appliances are similar to a sports mouth guard and are custom-made by dentists who have special training in sleep medicine.
Dentists can play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea by working in conjunction with a sleep physician. Dentists can screen patients for sleep apnea and refer them to a sleep physician for further evaluation. If a patient is diagnosed with sleep apnea, a dentist can then fabricate an oral appliance that is specifically designed to help keep the airway open during sleep.
Dentists also monitor the treatment progress of patients with sleep apnea and make any necessary adjustments to the oral appliance to ensure it is effective and provide follow-up care to ensure that the oral appliance is properly cleaned and maintained.
The advantage of an oral appliance therapy is that it is non-invasive, comfortable, and easy to use compared to other treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The treatment from a qualified dentist is non-invasive, comfortable, and easy to use.
Q | How long will it take to create my oral appliance to reduce or eliminate sleep apnea?
A | The time it takes for a dentist to create an oral appliance for sleep apnea can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of appliance being made, the complexity of the patient's case, and the dentist's schedule. Typically, it can take anywhere from one to several weeks for the appliance to be completed. However, it is best to consult with the dentist directly to get an accurate estimate for the time it will take.
Q | When should I talk to my dentist about an oral appliance to help my sleep apnea?
A | It is a good idea to talk to your dentist about an oral appliance to help with your sleep apnea if you have been diagnosed with the condition by a sleep specialist or have symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing, and daytime fatigue. Your dentist can work with a sleep specialist to determine if an oral appliance is appropriate for your specific case and can then create a custom appliance that fits comfortably in your mouth and helps to keep your airway open while you sleep.
It is also important to note that before starting any treatment, you should be evaluated by a sleep physician to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out any underlying conditions that may need to be addressed. Once you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your sleep physician will discuss with you the various treatment options available and help you to decide the best treatment plan for you.
