Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a medical condition which must be diagnosed by a doctor who will also evaluate the results from a sleep study. Your physician can request this exam which will determine the severity of the OSA you are experiencing. In several cases an oral appliance is recommended. The oral appliance works by slightly repositioning your lower jaw forward during your sleep, as an attempt to prevent the collapse of the soft tissue on the back of your throat, allowing therefore the airway to be open during your sleep. The oral appliance also helps to prevent you from snoring.
Sleep apnea is linked to several health problems, and it may increase the risk for diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure and stroke.
The oral appliance may not be the best treatment for you, a trained dentist is able to determine if you qualify for this kind of treatment. Oral appliances when being used unattended can lead to permanent bite change, or even tooth loss. Part of Dr. Porto’s orofacial pain training included treating patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Dr. Porto will be happy to evaluate your case and let you know if you can benefit by an oral appliance for sleep apnea.
