Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common yet often undiagnosed sleep disorder, affecting an estimated 30 million Americans. This condition not only disrupts your sleep but can cast a shadow over your entire day, leading to fatigue, headaches, and even difficulty concentrating.
At Power Road Dental Care, we’re dedicated to shining a light on this issue and offering effective solutions, like custom-fit oral appliances, to help you sleep soundly and improve your quality of life.
If you are searching for a dentist in Mesa, AZ that provides custom oral appliance for OSA, contact Power Road Dental Care at (480) 664-1438.
Book an AppointmentWhat is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA occurs when the throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep, causing you to temporarily stop breathing. This can happen hundreds of times each night, leading to fragmented sleep that leaves you feeling exhausted during the day.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea vs. Central Sleep Apnea
There are two main types of sleep apnea: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA).
- OSA is when your airway is blocked due to relaxed throat muscles.
- CSA is when your brain fails to signal the muscles that control breathing.
The best way to determine which type of sleep apnea you have is by undergoing a full evaluation with a sleep specialist.
Signs You May Have OSA
Symptoms of OSA include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Gasping during sleep
- Waking up tired or unrested
- Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
- Morning headache
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Irritability/mood swings
Long-Term Effects of Untreated OSA
When left untreated, OSA can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions such as:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Liver problems
- Depression and other mental health disorders
How Can an Oral Appliance Help?
Treating OSA with an oral appliance is a safe and effective solution for many patients. This small device helps keep your airway open by holding your tongue and jaw in a forward position while you sleep.
At Power Road Dental Care, we provide custom-fit oral appliances that are specially designed to fit your mouth and improve your sleep. Oral appliance therapy is non-invasive, allows you to maintain an open airway throughout the night, and can be used in combination with other treatments or lifestyle changes for optimal results.
Effects of Untreated OSA on Dental Health
The effects of OSA on your dental health should not be underestimated. Untreated sleep apnea causes you to sleep with your mouth open which causes dry mouth.
Dry mouth leads to:
- Bad breath
- Tooth decay
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Gingivitis
- Mouth sores
By treating OSA with oral appliance therapy, you can help protect your teeth and gums from potential damage.
What to Expect When Getting Fitted for an Oral Appliance at Power Road Dental Care
The process of getting fitted for an oral appliance begins with scheduling a consultation with Dr. Tyler N Davis. During this appointment, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to determine if you are a good candidate for oral appliance therapy for OSA.
Next, we will take impressions of your teeth and jaw to create a model of your mouth. This mold will be used to make a custom-fit oral appliance that is comfortable and easy to wear while sleeping.
We also offer ongoing follow-up visits to ensure the appliance is providing the desired results and to check for signs of tooth movement or gum irritation.
Start Your Journey to Better Sleep with Power Road Dental Care
At Power Road Dental Care, our mission is to help you get the restful sleep you deserve. If you think you may be suffering from OSA and are looking for an experienced dentist in Mesa, AZ that provides custom-fit oral appliances, contact us today at (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.
If you are searching for a dentist near me, trust the experts at Power Road Dental Care.
Book an AppointmentSummary
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder affecting nearly 30 million Americans.
- OSA disrupts sleep and can lead to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
- OSA occurs when throat muscles relax and block your airway during sleep.
- Untreated OSA can lead to serious health conditions like heart attack, stroke, diabetes, liver problems, and mental health disorders.
- An oral appliance can help treat OSA by holding your tongue and jaw in a forward position to keep your airway open.
- The process of getting fitted for an oral appliance at Power Road Dental Care involves consultation, impression taking, custom creation of the device, and follow-up visits.
- Treating OSA with oral appliance therapy can also help protect your teeth and gums from potential damage caused by dry mouth.
FAQs About OSA and Oral Appliance Therapy
What Is the Most Common Symptom of OSA?
The most common symptom is loud, frequent snoring. However, not everyone who snores has OSA. Other symptoms may include extreme daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, irritability or mood swings.
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Safe?
Yes, oral appliance therapy is a safe and effective solution for many patients with OSA. The risk of oral appliance therapy may include tooth movement, jaw problems, and gum irritation; however, these can be monitored with ongoing follow-up visits.
What Is the Success Rate of Oral Appliance Therapy?
Studies have shown that oral appliance therapy is effective in treating OSA. Each patient’s results may vary, but it is important to speak with your doctor or dentist if you are considering treatment for OSA.
How Long Does an Oral Appliance Last?
An oral appliance typically lasts several years, depending on the type and how it is taken care of. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for wearing and cleaning the device to ensure its longevity.