At Haggerty Dental, we know how vital quality sleep is to maintaining your overall health and well-being. Sleep apnea, a common condition, disrupts restful sleep and affects daily life – but did you know that a custom mouthguard can offer a simple and effective solution? With our specialized sleep apnea treatment in Plymouth, MI, we provide tailored solutions to help you breathe easier and enjoy uninterrupted, restorative sleep.
If you or a loved one is dealing with sleep apnea, here’s why a professionally crafted mouthguard could be a great treatment option.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing. These interruptions can happen multiple times an hour, leaving you feeling tired and agitated and increasing your risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
The most prevalent form of the condition, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is typically caused by the soft tissues in the throat collapsing and blocking the airway. While CPAP machines are a well-known treatment, many patients find custom mouthguards to be a more comfortable and convenient alternative.
Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard:
- Comfortable Fit
Unlike over-the-counter options, a professional mouthguard is tailored to the shape of your mouth. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit that doesn’t cause irritation or discomfort, making it easy to wear throughout the night. - Convenience
A mouthguard is small, portable, and doesn’t require electricity, making it a great option for patients who travel frequently or find CPAP machines cumbersome. - Improved Compliance
Many patients find mouthguards more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines, leading to better compliance with treatment and more consistent results. - Effective Treatment
Custom oral appliances are proven to significantly reduce symptoms of mild to moderate sleep apnea. For many patients, this means less snoring, better sleep quality, and improved overall health.
How Is a Mouthguard Made?
The process of creating a custom mouthguard at Haggerty Dental includes the following steps:
- Consultation and Diagnosis: We begin with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your symptoms and sleep study results, to determine if a mouthguard is the right solution for you.
- Impressions: We take precise impressions of your teeth to create a custom appliance tailored to your unique oral structure.
- Fabrication: The mouthguard is crafted using durable, high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting comfort and effectiveness.
- Fitting and Adjustment: Once your mouthguard is ready, we ensure it fits perfectly and make any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort.
Why Choose a Mouthguard?
For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine, a mouthguard can be an excellent alternative. It’s effective, non-invasive, and easy to use, making it a preferred treatment option for many.
If you’d like to improve your sleep and overall health, contact our team today to learn more about custom mouthguards for sleep apnea. We’re here to help you breathe easier and sleep better!