What are Sleep Appliances, and How Are They Used?
If you have a problem with snoring or interrupted sleep due to difficulty breathing, you could be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a condition where your breathing stops and restarts multiple times in your sleep. Sleep apnea keeps you from getting quality sleep, so you wake up tired and sluggish every morning. At Peachtree Corners Dental Associates, Peachtree Corners, Georgia, Dr. Kristina Dawson offers customized sleep appliances in the form of mouthguards to help counter the effects of sleep apnea, so you can get the rest you need.
About OSA
As you sleep, the muscles in your body relax, including those in the back of your throat, that allow air to pass through. In most people, the throat stays open just enough for air to flow into their lungs so they can breathe normally. In others, muscle relaxation causes tissues to collapse and block the airway, resulting in obstructive sleep apnea. OSA can cause you to wake up multiple times during the night, gasping for air. It also produces loud snoring as the air squeezes through blocked airways. When left untreated, sleep apnea can cause anxiety, uncontrolled blood pressure, uncontrolled blood sugar and many other systemic issues.
Mouthguard for Sleeping
The traditional treatment for OSA is dictated by the sleep study. Many people start with a CPAP machine to help them breathe. However, if your sleep study indicates you have a mild or moderate case of OSA a mouthguard may be a good treatment to consider. To some, a mouthguard is less intimidating, making it easier to adjust to. This oral appliance is custom fitted to the contours of your mouth and teeth for comfort and effectiveness. It comes in two pieces worn over your top and bottom teeth. When in place, the mouthguards gently shift your jaw forward to keep your throat open so you can breathe normally while you sleep.
Mouthguards for sleeping are:
- portable, convenient, and non-invasive, making them easier to use
- easy to maintain and clean
- highly customizable to suit your unique respiratory needs
Wearing a mouthguard when sleeping can significantly improve the quality of your sleep, so you can wake up rested and refreshed daily.
To learn more about oral appliances for better sleep, contact Peachtree Corners Dental Associates in Peachtree Corners, GA, at (770) 501-6669.
Dr. Kristina Dawson, DMD
Dr. Kristina Dawson, DMD, is a skilled dentist with a Doctorate in Medical Dentistry from the Medical College of Georgia. A graduate of the University of Georgia, she brings expertise in dental care and a commitment to lifelong learning through continued education with the Spear Institute and various dental organizations, including the ADA and GDA. Active in dental outreach and community service, she volunteers with the Georgia Mission of Mercy and local charities. Dr. Dawson's involvement in professional and local organizations underscores her authority and dedication to both her field and community, ensuring trustworthy and compassionate patient care.
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Dr. Caroline Glessner, DMD
Dr. Caroline Glessner, DMD, is a compassionate and detail-oriented dentist who believes in putting patients first. A proud Georgia native, she earned her degree in chemistry from the University of Georgia, with minors in biology and public health. Shen then completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Glessner further refined her clinical skills through an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency with the South Texas Veterans Health Care System. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association and Hinman Dental Society. She is committed to ongoing education to ensure her patients receive thoughtful, modern, and evidence-based care.
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