Oral Appliance Therapy In Tualatin OR

Do you have sleep apnea? Are you looking for the best solution for sleep apnea in Tualatin OR? If you are looking for the best oral appliance therapy in Tualatin OR, visit Sleep Health Partners. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when an individual's breathing is interrupted by pauses in breathing. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. Obstructive sleep apnea is the type of sleep apnea that occurs when tissues in the back of the throat collapse and block the airway. As a result, the tissues in the back of the throat vibrate, causing the snoring sound. The symptoms of sleep apnea include daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, morning headaches, and insomnia.

Oral Appliance Therapy In Tualatin OR

Oral appliances are small devices worn in the mouth during sleep that help keep airways open. They are a good option for patients who snore or have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. They work similarly to braces or retainers by shifting the jaw forward and helping to prevent the soft tissues from blocking your airway. These removable devices are made of acrylic and fit inside the mouth, similar to a sports mouth guard. They do not require any electricity or power source to work.

There are three different types of oral appliances: tongue retaining device, mandibular repositioning device, and a CPAP alternative. Some patients may benefit from a combination of these devices to help them achieve the best results from sleep therapy. At our practice, we evaluate each case individually to determine which device is most appropriate for the patient's needs. Our dentist will talk with the patient about each option and help determine which type of oral appliance is the best fit for them.

For patients with more severe sleep apnea, our dentists may recommend a CPAP machine. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It uses a small motor to pump air into the nose through a mask to help encourage airflow and keep the airway open while sleeping. The air pressure keeps the tissues of the throat from collapsing during the night and helps to prevent snoring. If a patient does not respond well to this treatment, then we may refer them to a specialist for a sleep study. During this test, the patient will be monitored overnight in a lab setting to determine the cause of their symptoms and which treatment option is best for them.

Advantages of an oral appliance

Oral appliances are non-invasive and easy to wear, so you can be comfortable while getting the sleep you need. Oral appliances are also convenient and cost-effective. These small devices are easy to travel with and carry with you while you sleep.

Many patients find these devices to be more appealing than CPAP masks because they are less bulky and don't cover your nose or mouth. A device that is custom-made for your mouth is made of flexible materials and fits comfortably over your teeth only. This protects your tongue, cheeks, and lips from irritation that can come from using a mask.

Oral appliances are worn at night and help to keep your airway open during sleep so you can breathe easily through the night. This can help prevent snoring and other breathing problems. 

Schedule a consultation with our dentists at Sleep Health Partners in Tualatin OR, to learn more about which oral appliance is right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!