Do you ever wake up feeling like you barely slept, even after a full night in bed? Do you snore loudly, or has a partner mentioned that you seem to stop breathing for a moment while you sleep? These could be signs of a common but serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Many people are surprised to learn that sleep apnea is considered an oral health problem. Your dentist can play a key role in treating it! Sleep apnea happens when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much during sleep. This causes the soft tissues to collapse, temporarily blocking your airway.
Your brain then has to wake you up just enough to gasp for air before you can drift back to sleep. This cycle can happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night, without you ever fully remembering it.
The result? You spend your days feeling exhausted, foggy, and irritable because you never got the deep, restorative sleep you need. You might have heard of the CPAP machine, which is a common and effective treatment. But for many people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom sleep apnea night guard is a simpler solution that can work wonders.
Let’s answer some common questions about how these devices work and whether one might be right for you.
Your Questions About Sleep Apnea Night Guards, Answered
How does a sleep apnea night guard actually work?
Think of it like a gentle, custom-fitted mouthpiece you wear while you sleep. Unlike a CPAP machine that uses air pressure, a night guard works mechanically. It’s expertly designed to hold your lower jaw in a slightly forward position.
This simple repositioning pulls the base of your tongue forward and tightens the soft tissues at the back of your throat. That will keep your airway open and clear all night long. It’s a comfortable, quiet way to help you breathe freely while you sleep.
Am I a good candidate for a night guard instead of a CPAP?
Night guards are an excellent option for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. They’re also a great choice for people who find CPAP machines too bulky, noisy, or uncomfortable to use consistently.
However, for severe cases of sleep apnea, a CPAP machine is still the best and most necessary treatment. The only way to know for sure is with a proper evaluation, which involves a sleep study. We can help guide you through that process.
How do I even know if I need sleep apnea treatment?
The signs aren’t always obvious, especially since many happen while you’re asleep. Here’s what to look out for:
- Loud, chronic snoring (the first clue for a partner).
- Waking up gasping or choking.
- Feeling extremely tired all day, no matter how long you were in bed.
- Morning headaches or a dry mouth.
- Difficulty concentrating, memory issues, or mood changes.
Certain factors can increase your risk, such as being overweight, having a larger neck size, or habits like smoking and alcohol use. If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth getting checked out.
Is it comfortable to sleep with a night guard?
This is a very common and important concern. The key word is custom. We don’t use a one-size-fits-all boil-and-bite kit from the store. We take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a guard that fits your mouth perfectly, like a key in a lock.
While it may feel a little strange for the first few nights as you get used to it, most patients adjust quickly. The relief of breathing easily and sleeping soundly far outweighs the initial adjustment. Plus, a major benefit is that it completely stops snoring, which means better sleep for you and anyone sharing your room!
How can a dentist treat a sleep problem?
As experts in the mouth, jaw, and airway, dentists are uniquely positioned to help. We understand how the position of your jaw affects your breathing. During a consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms and health history.
If a night guard is right for you, we’ll take those precise impressions right here in our Plano, TX office to create your personal appliance. We’ll also ensure it fits perfectly and provide follow-up care to make sure it’s working effectively for you.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep in Plano, TX
If you’re tired of being tired, don’t ignore the signs. Treating sleep apnea is crucial not just for your energy levels, but for your long-term heart health, blood pressure, and overall well-being.
Dr. Sara Chen and our compassionate team are here to help you explore your options. We want to listen to your experience and see if a comfortable, custom night guard could be your simple solution to peaceful sleep and energized days.
Ready to breathe easier and sleep better? Call our office at (972) 382-6855 to discuss your symptoms. You can also request an appointment online.
Please let us know about any sleep concerns you have. We’re here to answer all your questions and help you find the restful sleep you deserve.