Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes. This condition can cause fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and other serious health problems. Fortunately, several treatment options are available for sleep apnea, including oral appliance therapy.

Oral appliance therapy involves the use of a custom-fitted device that is worn in the mouth during sleep. The device is designed to keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue. This helps to prevent the airway from collapsing and causing the pauses in breathing that are characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea.

Why Choose Oral Appliance Therapy?

There are several benefits of oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea over more invasive options. First and foremost, it is an effective treatment option that can improve the quality of sleep and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. Studies have shown that oral appliance therapy can significantly reduce the number of apnea and hypopnea events per hour, as well as improve oxygen saturation levels during sleep.

Another benefit of oral appliance therapy is that it is a non-invasive treatment option. Unlike other treatments for sleep apnea, such as surgery or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliance therapy does not require any invasive procedures or equipment. This makes it a more comfortable and convenient option for many patients. You can easily travel and bring your device with you in a small case that fits in your luggage.

Oral appliance therapy is also a more cost-effective treatment option than other alternatives. CPAP therapy, for example, can be quite expensive, with the cost of equipment and maintenance adding up over time. In contrast, oral appliance therapy is a one-time cost that is often covered by insurance.

In addition to these benefits, oral appliance therapy is a more comfortable treatment option than other alternatives. Many patients find CPAP therapy uncomfortable and difficult to use, while surgery can be painful and require a long recovery time. On the other hand, oral appliance therapy is comfortable and easy to use, allowing patients to get a good night’s sleep without discomfort or inconvenience. It is also less invasive for sleeping partners – no noise or equipment is entering the bed.

Overall, oral appliance therapy is a safe, effective, and convenient treatment option for sleep apnea. It can improve the quality of sleep and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea without requiring any invasive procedures or equipment. If you suffer from sleep apnea symptoms, come see us at Atlanta Sleep Apnea Treatment Center. With the right treatment, you can get the restful, refreshing sleep you need to stay healthy and happy. Call our clinic in Atlanta, GA, today to schedule your sleep apnea consultation with Dr. Suway.