Our Services
Sleep Consultation
Sleep Hygiene Assistance
Oral appliance fabrication
Continuing care for sleep
Loud Snoring Relief
Oral appliance titeration
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Tel.: 860 674 0707
info@dentistinavonct.com
39 E Main Street, Avon, CT
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, causing the person to snore loudly and wake up gasping for air. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Most people affected by sleep apnea wake up feeling tired and have daytime sleepiness. A few other signs may include:
Loud Snoring
Morning headaches
Feeling unrefreshed in the morning
Acid Reflux
Elevated blood pressure
Anxiety and depression
What is an oral sleep apnea device?
An oral sleep apnea device, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD) or a dental sleep appliance, is a type of oral appliance that is used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. It is designed to keep the airway open during sleep by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue.
An oral sleep apnea device is typically custom-fitted by a dentist or sleep specialist. A dentist with a proper training is highly recommended to treat this serious condition. An AADSM Diplomate or a qualified dentist is highly recommended. The oral device is made of moldable plastic and is worn over the teeth during sleep, just like a night guard. It works by advancing the lower jaw forward, which tightens the soft tissue and muscles in the back of the throat, preventing them from collapsing and blocking the airway.
Oral sleep apnea devices are a non-invasive alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which is considered the gold standard treatment for sleep apnea. CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth that delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airway open during sleep. While effective, some people find CPAP therapy uncomfortable and difficult to tolerate.
Oral sleep apnea devices are generally well-tolerated and can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. People with severe sleep apnea or certain dental conditions may not be able to use an oral sleep apnea device.
If you are considering an oral sleep apnea device, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist or sleep specialist to determine if this treatment is right for you. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the risks and benefits of different treatment options and help you make an informed decision about your care. Please call 860.674.0707 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kumar who is a Diplomate of American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Steps for fabricating a sleep device
The process of fabricating a mandibular advancement device typically involves several steps:
Consultation and Examination
The first step is to consult with a qualified dentist or sleep specialist who can evaluate your symptoms and determine if a mandibular advancement device is right for you. This may involve a physical exam, a review of your medical history, and sleep testing to confirm a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea.
Taking impressions
Once it has been determined that a mandibular advancement device is appropriate for you, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and gums using a moldable material. This will create an accurate model of your mouth, which will be used to create a custom-fitted device.
Bite Registration / setting initial appliance position
After the impressions are taken, the dentist will also take a bite registration to determine the position of your jaw when it is in a comfortable and effective forward position for treating sleep apnea.
Design and Fabrication
Using the impressions and bite registration, the dentist will design and fabricate a mandibular advancement device specifically tailored to fit your mouth. The device is typically made of a moldable plastic and may have adjustable components to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.
Fitting and Adjustment
Once the device has been fabricated, you will return to the dentist for a fitting appointment. The dentist will ensure that the device fits properly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
Follow-up appointments
After you have started using the device, you will need to schedule follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the device. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for the use and care of the device to ensure its effectiveness and longevity.
Overall, the process of fabricating a mandibular advancement device typically takes several weeks and requires multiple visits to the dentist. However, a well-fitted and properly used device can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Patient Testimonials
Local Publication
The Valley Press – Local Publication
Recognition forSleep Apnea||Treatment
Dr. Kumar was recognized for his work in the local community. Click below to see the valley press publication
Our Locations
Avon Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
39 East Main Street, Avon, CT 06001
Phone: (860) 674 – 0707
Fax: (860) 678 – 8440
Email: info@dentistinavonct.com
Essel Dental
44 South Main Street, East Windsor, CT 06088
Phone: (860) 254 – 6955
Fax: (860) 254 – 6956
Email: info@esseldental.com
