Dental sleep medicine seeks to address concerns with staying asleep throughout the night due to sleep apnea or other sleep disorders. It is a great alternative to CPAP machines and related treatment options. Having a better understanding of what dental sleep medicine is can put individuals in a better position to decide what treatment option is best.
An overview of dental sleep medicine
Everyone should be able to get a good night's sleep without constantly waking up or waking their partner up. The following is an overview of how dental sleep medicine can help patients address sleep-related concerns.
Dental sleep medicine defined
Dental sleep medicine is an area of dentistry that focuses on treating issues with breathing while asleep that can disrupt sleep and cause other notable symptoms. It seeks to treat patients through oral appliances, rather than through medication or other forms of treatment. Two of the more common concerns that dental sleep medicine seeks to treat include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. Dental sleep medicine is also tailored specifically for each patient and the individual treatment plan may look different.
How dental sleep medicine can help
Dental sleep medicine offers two primary methods of treatment, which are mandibular advancement devices (MAD) and mouthpieces for snoring. A mandibular advancement device, also called an oral device, seeks to open up the airways to allow for proper breathing patterns while sleeping. For many, they are an effective alternative to CPAP machines, and many find them to be far more comfortable and convenient than a CPAP. Dental mouthpieces are simpler in design, but they accomplish a similar goal, which is a better night of sleep for the patient and perhaps their significant other.
When to consider dental sleep medicine
Individuals that are unable to sleep well due to symptoms of sleep apnea or a similar sleep disorder are encouraged to consider how dental sleep medicine may benefit them. Several of the more common symptoms dental sleep medicine can address include:
- Gasping sounds while sleeping
- Loud and excessive snoring
- Daytime fatigue and lack of energy
- Inability to stay asleep throughout the night
- Dry mouth, dry throat and headache
A dentist who offers dental sleep medicine treatment can examine the symptoms and help individuals find the right path of treatment for a better night of sleep.
Additional tips for better sleep
Not every patient who experiences the symptoms mentioned above has a sleep disorder. In some instances, it could be due to lifestyle factors. Individuals that have trouble sleeping but are not sure why, may want to consider trying to eat healthier and stay on a more consistent schedule before seeking dental sleep medicine. If symptoms persist, then treatment may be necessary.
Contact us today for more information
When experiencing sleeping disorders or issues, it is worth consulting with a dentist. Dental sleep medicine is a great resource that can be used to improve sleeping patterns. Reach out today to learn more or to get started!
Request an appointment here: https://pier210dental.com or call Pier 210 Dental Group at (530) 885-5696 for an appointment in our Auburn office.
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