Dentists can treat sleep apnea using various oral appliances and techniques, including:
1. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): Custom-made mouthpieces that advance the lower jaw, keeping airways open.
2. Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs): Mouthpieces that hold the tongue forward, preventing it from obstructing the airway.
3. Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): Custom-made devices that reposition the jaw, tongue, or soft palate to improve airflow.
4. Adjustable Oral Appliances: Devices that allow for adjustments to be made to achieve optimal positioning.
5. Sleep Guards: Custom-made mouthpieces that advance the lower jaw and protect teeth from grinding.
6. Upper Airway Stimulation (UAS) Devices: Implantable devices that stimulate the tongue to move forward during sleep.
7. Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP): A minimally invasive procedure to remove excess tissue in the throat.
Dentists work closely with sleep physicians and other healthcare professionals to:
- Diagnose sleep apnea
- Determine the best oral appliance for each patient
- Fit and adjust the appliance
- Monitor treatment progress
- Make any necessary adjustments
Note: Dentists typically treat mild to moderate sleep apnea cases, while severe cases may require medical treatment or a combination of both dental and medical approaches.
Know how a Dentist Treat Sleep Apnea !