Chronic snoring and breathing interruption when sleeping are often telltale signs of a developing sleep apnea problem. At first, it might seem to be just a nuisance. But if the problem remains unaddressed, these respiratory issues can lead to health complications.
In time sleep apnea could increase stress on the heart muscle. This, in turn, could complicate problems with high blood pressure, as well as increase your chances of suffering heart disease, and stroke. At the same, time chronic problems sleeping could increase your general stress level and cause other problems.
The first step in the treatment process is to have your sleep apnea professionally diagnosed by a physician. The severity and contributing factors of your sleep apnea will determine your treatment strategy. If it’s determined that you suffer from severe sleep apnea, you may need to sleep with a positive air pressure device called a CPAP machine.
However, individuals that suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea, might find significant symptom relief from a prescription snore guard provided by our orthodontist, Dr. James Bieneman. There are several different designs available, depending on the specifics of your mouth, and your personal preference. A tongue stabilizing device might be preferable for denture wearers since it doesn’t attach to the teeth.
There are several different styles and designs of devices that move the jaw forward. Most attach to the teeth in some manner and may also include a stabilizing hinge. This type of dental appliance is designed to hold your mouth and soft palate in the ideal position to allow the easy flow air and reduce snoring problems. Thermoplastic snore guards use a special material that softens when heated in water. Once it becomes soft, you bite down on it firmly. The snore guard material will then conform to the unique shape of your teeth before it hardens.
If you live in the Arvada, Colorado area and you’re suffering with mild to moderate sleep apnea, you should call 303.421.2696 to explore your snore guard options available at Craniofacial Pain Center Of Colorado.
