What Are Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can be a scary thing. Imagine waking up many times during the night because you stop breathing. It's super important to find ways to help with sleep apnea so you can sleep better and feel better. One popular way is by using oral appliances.

Oral appliances are small devices that you put in your mouth while you sleep. They help keep your airway open, so you can breathe better and sleep soundly. Dr. Criss says these devices are a great option for many people who have sleep apnea but don't want to use big machines.

Dr. Criss will guide you through the different types of oral appliances and how they work. You’ll also get some tips on how to choose the right one. By the end, you'll understand more about how these handy devices can help you or someone you know sleep better at night.

Understanding Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Oral appliances are special devices made to help people with sleep apnea. Sleep apnea happens when your airway gets blocked while you are sleeping, causing you to wake up many times during the night. These appliances are fit by professionals like Dr. Criss to match your mouth comfortably.

These devices are pretty easy to use. You just put them in your mouth when you go to bed. They work by keeping your jaw in a certain position. This helps keep your airway open, so you can breathe without interruptions. Dr. Criss often recommends these because they are simple and don’t require a lot of upkeep.

Oral appliances are also small and easy to carry. This makes them a good choice for people who travel a lot. Dr. Criss assures that these devices are both effective and convenient for those who need a break from more invasive treatments. It’s a great way to get a good night's sleep without too much hassle.

Types of Oral Appliances

There are a few different kinds of oral appliances that Dr. Criss might suggest. Each has its own way of helping your airway stay open during sleep. Here are the main types:

• Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These are the most common type. They work by pushing your lower jaw slightly forward. This keeps your airway open. Dr. Criss often says these are effective for many patients.
• Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs): These devices hold your tongue in place so it doesn’t fall back and block your throat. While they may feel odd at first, Dr. Criss finds they work well for people with specific needs.
• Hybrid Devices: These combine features from both MADs and TRDs. They provide a custom fit and can address more complicated cases. Dr. Criss usually recommends these for patients who need a bit more help.

Each of these devices is custom-made to fit your mouth. Dr. Criss will look at your specific needs to find the best option for you. This way, you get the relief you need for a good night's sleep.

How Do Oral Appliances Work?

Oral appliances work by keeping your airway open as you sleep. They do this by moving your jaw or tongue into a position that allows better airflow. This helps reduce or even stop the pauses in breathing that come with sleep apnea.

Mandibular advancement devices push your lower jaw forward. This stops your airway from collapsing. Tongue-retaining devices, on the other hand, hold your tongue in place so it doesn’t block your throat. Hybrid devices can do both, depending on what you need.

Dr. Criss explains that the main goal is to improve your breathing and your sleep quality. When your airway stays open, you get more oxygen. This means fewer interruptions during sleep and better overall health. Understanding how these appliances work helps you see why they are such a good solution for sleep apnea.

Choosing the Right Oral Appliance with Dr. Criss

Picking the right oral appliance is important. Dr. Criss can help determine which device will work best for you. The choice depends on several things, like the shape of your mouth and the severity of your sleep apnea.

First, Dr. Criss checks your mouth, teeth, and jaw. This helps in making a custom-fit device that is comfortable to wear. It’s important that the device fits well so it works correctly and feels good in your mouth.

Next, Dr. Criss discusses the different types of appliances with you. You’ll learn about mandibular advancement devices, tongue-retaining devices, and hybrid options. Dr. Criss takes the time to explain how each type works and what to expect.

Finally, you’ll get to try the appliance. Dr. Criss makes adjustments if needed to ensure the best fit. Choosing the right device with Dr. Criss means you’ll get the help you need to sleep better and live healthier.

Conclusion

Oral appliances are a great way to manage sleep apnea. They keep your airway open. helping you breathe better and sleep more soundly. Dr. Criss is skilled in fitting these devices, ensuring you get a comfortable and effective solution.

With different types available, Dr. Criss can help find the perfect match for your needs. Whether it’s a mandibular advancement device, a tongue-retaining device, or a hybrid, there’s an option that can help you.

Don't let sleep apnea disrupt your life. Contact Black Hills Sleep and TMJ and let Dr. Criss guide you to a better night's sleep. Reach out today to learn more about how oral appliances and sleep apnea alternatives to CPAP can help you.