Oral problems can easily lead to lost sleep. Unfortunately, many people don’t think about going to the dentist to get help for their issues. However, for problems such as cavities or tooth infections that cause pain and disrupt sleep, a dentist is the ideal professional to visit for treatment. Dentists can also address a silent sleep thief, sleep apnea, using innovative oral sleep aids. Contact Wambaugh Dental at 281.501.7849 to get treatment for sleep apnea.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is potentially dangerous. This condition happens when an individual wakes up briefly during the night because they cannot breathe. In many cases, the patient is not aware of these nightly wakings, but they do not feel refreshed from even a good night’s sleep. Aside from sleepiness, other signs of sleep apnea include:
- Snoring
- Falling asleep during the day
- Morning headaches
- Feeling short of breath when waking in the night
- Coughing or snoring loudly
There are two primary forms of sleep apnea, obstructive and central. Dental sleep aids correct the issues that can lead to obstructive sleep apnea, which happens when something physically blocks the airway. Those with symptoms of sleep apnea must contact a dentist who specializes in fitting patients with oral sleep aids for treatment.
What Are Oral Sleep Aids?
Oral sleep aids are methods dentists use to help patients to sleep. The way the mouth rests during sleep could cause snoring and sleep apnea. Using a mechanical device to hold the mouth and jaw in a position that prevents snoring, the dentist can correct the issues that lead to sleep apnea and help patients get rest.
One of the most effective oral sleep aids for sleep apnea is a Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) Appliance. This sleep aid lets the patient make personal comfort adjustments while it still fits inside the mouth. A dentist must custom-fit the TAP Appliance for the patient to get the full effectiveness from it. The appliance keeps the airway open and may be as effective as a CPAP machine for some sleep apnea patients.
Another oral sleep aid to prevent the effects of snoring is the mandibular advancement device (MAD). This piece ensures that the jaw stays in a position to open the airway better. When the airways do not have an obstruction, snoring doesn’t happen. Oral sleep aids that prevent the tongue from falling and blocking the airway are alternative options. The dentist will examine the patient and choose the best device to correct their reasons for sleep apnea.
Other Forms of Oral Sleep Aids
While obstructive sleep apnea can disrupt sleep, other mouth problems can, too. Patients with tooth or gum pain may stay awake at night until they can have the issues treated. Anyone who has persistent tooth or gum pain needs to schedule a visit with a dentist to find the cause of the problem and treat it.
Putting off a dental exam and treatment will only worsen problems. With dental pain control methods during treatment procedures, such as sedation dentistry, a visit to the dentist is more comfortable than ever and free of anxiety. Get painful teeth and gums examined and painlessly treated to restore restful nights by reaching out to Wambaugh Dental.
Get the Rest You Deserve with Wambaugh Dental
Don’t let sleep apnea or toothache cause sleepless nights. Contact Wambaugh Dental in The Woodlands, TX, for the best sleep aids to address the specific problem. Our ability to provide oral sleep aids that include dental treatment for problems and correction for sleep apnea. This service allows us to help our patients to get the rest they deserve. Call our office at 281.501.7849 to set an appointment or request an appointment online.
