Dental Alternative to CPAP Machines

The issue of sleep apnea has been gaining quite a bit of traction in recent years. We’re not sure if more people are suffering from it or if the medical and dental communities are becoming more vigilant about treating it. We do know that the greater risks are high: hypertension, stroke, heart attacks. We also know that many people have greatly improved their lives by seeking treatment. rnBasically, sleep apnea is the condition where you stop breathing many, many times during the night, sometimes for extended periods that put you at risk. What happens is that the soft palate at the base of your tongue experiences a collapse and your airway becomes obstructed. At the least you will suffer snoring. At the most you may experience headaches, sleepiness, fatigue, and poor judgment throughout your day. Many people use a CPAP machine and have had great success with it.rnA CPAP machine connects to a face or nose mask that runs a steady stream of air which holds your airway open and facilitates more consistent breathing and sleep. These machines are adjustable to accommodate the individual needs of each patient. Not everyone likes CPAPs even as they benefit from them. Common complaints include:rn1. It’s difficult to properly fit the mask.rn2. It’s difficult to sleep with it on. (for some)rn3. Nasal congestion renders the mask ineffectivern4. It can be difficult to travel with the machinern5. Replacement parts can be expensive.rnDid you know that there is a dental alternative to using a CPAP machine? A sleep apnea-trained dentist can fit you with an oral appliance that will open your airway without all of the hassle of a CPAP machine. rnThis oral appliance will position your jaw so that your lower teeth are slightly ahead of your upper teeth. Since the soft palate at the base of tongue is the weak spot then this will keep your airway open and facilitate better breathing and sleep. This is a particularly attractive option for those with chronic nasal congestion problems.rnIt’s a similar process to having a night guard made. Your dentist will take a mold and make an appliance that accommodates the specific traits of your teeth and jaw. Then you use it, sleep like a baby, and let the rest of your life improve too. More and more dentists are becoming trained in this specific field. If you need to find a qualified dentist visit http://www.dentaloptimizer.comrn