Snoring can sometimes be a simple annoyance that might make your significant other toss and turn every now and then. Other times, snoring can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition that occurs when mouth and throat tissues block your airway as you sleep, preventing you from breathing for several seconds. Over time, the lack of oxygen and sleep this condition causes can have detrimental effects on your health. There are several ways you can treat sleep apnea and get back to resting peacefully.
Schedule an appointment with a specialist. They can diagnose you and provide you guidance on the best way to treat your condition. There are several options to help with OSA. It’s important you choose one that best fits your lifestyle.
Usually, OSA is treated with a CPAP machine, which pumps a gentle amount of air pressure to keep your airway clear. Although effective, this machine can be loud and cumbersome to use. Your dentist can help you avoid that hassle by creating a custom-made sleep guard. Fitting comfortably into your mouth, this device keeps your jaw and tongue held forward while you sleep, providing the same clear airway a CPAP does. These devices come in several designs and are created to specifically fit your mouth, ensuring you a deep, peaceful sleep without irritation.
Seeing a professional and choosing the treatment that works best for you will help you sleep soundly and safely through the night.