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Sleep Apnea Appliances
Sleep Apnea
What is a Sleep Apnea Appliance?
A sleep apnea appliance, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD), is a custom-made oral device designed to help treat sleep apnea and snoring. This appliance works by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open while you sleep. By improving airflow and reducing airway blockages, it helps to prevent the pauses in breathing that are characteristic of sleep apnea, promoting better, more restful sleep.
When is a Sleep Apnea Appliance Needed?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can cause frequent interruptions in your breathing during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and a range of health problems. A sleep apnea appliance is typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or those who prefer an alternative to CPAP therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). It is particularly helpful for those who experience:
- Loud snoring
- Frequent choking or gasping during sleep
- Daytime fatigue and drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, a sleep apnea appliance can provide a comfortable and effective solution, helping you sleep more soundly and improving your overall health.
Consult with us to find out if a sleep apnea appliance is right for you, and experience better rest and improved quality of life.
Snore Guard Appliances
What is a Snore Appliance?
A snore appliance, also known as a snore guard or anti-snoring device, is a custom-fitted oral device designed to reduce or eliminate snoring. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw or tongue to keep the airway open while you sleep. This helps prevent the vibration of tissues in the throat that causes the sound of snoring, allowing for quieter, more peaceful sleep for both you and your partner.
Why is a Snore Appliance Needed?
Snoring is not only a disruptive sound but can also be a sign of underlying issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If you or your partner have noticed frequent snoring, it could be affecting your sleep quality and overall health. A snore appliance is needed when:
- You snore loudly enough to disrupt your sleep or that of your partner.
- Snoring is accompanied by periods of breathing pauses or gasping.
- You feel tired or fatigued during the day, even after a full night’s sleep.
For people without OSA, a snore appliance is a simple and effective solution to reduce snoring, improve your sleep, and enhance your overall well-being. If snoring is affecting your quality of life, consult with us to see if a custom snore appliance is the right choice for you.
Night Guards and Retainers
Night Guards
Occlusal guards, also known as custom dental night guards and dental mouth guards, are custom-made removable devices that fit over the teeth and are used to help prevent the wearing down of teeth during sleep due to grinding and clenching.
Retainers
Dental retainers are used after braces have been removed and orthodontics are completed to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position. Retainers are typically worn overnight to help maintain the position of straightened teeth.
Sports Guard or Mouth Guards
A sports guard, also known as a mouth guard, is a soft plastic or laminate device used in sports to prevent injuries to the teeth, mouth, cheeks, tongue and jaw. An estimated one third of dental injuries are sports related. The use of a sports guard can prevent more than 200,000 dental and oral injuries each year.