Anti-Snoring Appliances
For some, snoring is nothing more than an occasional, inconvenient habit. However, for others, chronic, heavy snoring can be a sign of more serious health concerns. Occasional snoring can disturb others and cause a dry mouth or sore throat. Chronic, heavy snoring is often a symptom of sleep apnea, which can be associated with stroke, hypertension and other heart and breathing problems.
What is sleep apnea?
The Greek word apnoia literally means “without breath”. There are three types of apnea: obstructive, central and mixed. Of the three, obstructive is the most common. Despite the difference in the root cause of each type, in all three, people with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during the night – often for a minute or longer.
What are the signs of sleep apnea?
- Choking or interrupted breathing during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- A strong urge to sleep during the day
- Jerking limb movements during sleep
- Awakening tired and thirsty
- Snoring
Severe sleep apnea can result in serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, and even heart failure. People with undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea are more likely to be involved in automobile accidents while driving, due to lack of sleep.
What can a denturist do?
Denturist can fit you with an oral appliance specially designed to treat snoring and sleep apnea.
Oral appliances are small and easy to wear. They weigh only a couple of ounces, which makes them convenient for travel. In addition, they are relatively inexpensive when compared to other alternatives, such as surgery and CPAP (constant positive air pressure) devices. As well, oral appliances are non-invasive and non-surgical. Some medical insurance companies cover the cost of these appliances.
Oral appliances may be available from a specially trained Denturist in your area. Custom fitting is simple and painless.
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