Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious medical condition affecting about 4% of middle-aged men and 2% of middle-aged women in America. This condition is characterized by loud snoring, restless nights, and high blood pressure in its sufferers. OSA occurs when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep, blocking the airway to the lungs.
For many years, the gold standard in sleep apnea treatment has been the continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machine. This large, noisy machine can be particularly uncomfortable for some of its users, and disruptive to their partners. In honor of National Relaxation Day, Dr. James Stewart would like to shed some light on a more comfortable alternative.
Benefits Of Oral Appliance Therapy
In recent years, an alternative to the CPAP machine has given OSA sufferers some hope. Oral appliance therapy is a more comfortable and convenient way to deal with the problems of sleep apnea. By repositioning and stabilizing the lower jaw, tongue, and soft palate of its users, these appliances allow for unrestricted airflow, without sacrificing a good night’s sleep.
These appliances can be custom made by your dentist to ensure that you have the best possible solution for your specific needs. After as few as two weeks of regular use, most patients start adapting to the device and admit to a better sleep without the hassle of standard CPAP machines.
Ready For A Change?
If you suffer from sleep apnea and are tired of dealing with bulky, uncomfortable CPAP machines, oral appliance therapy may be your ticket to a good night’s sleep. Dr. James R. Stewart can assess your situation and help you find the perfect appliance for your needs. Call Dr. Stewart today at (734) 425-4400. We proudly serve patients from Livonia, Novi, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Dearborn, and the surrounding areas.