Tackling Your Dental Treatment Plan

Tackling Your Dental Treatment Plan

About Me

Tackling Your Dental Treatment Plan

Hi! My name is Addy Reed. I’m 57 years old and have been neglectful about going to the dentist. Last month was my first dentist visit in six years. I had always been diligent about twice a year cleanings and checkups, but time got away from me until one of my crowns came out. As we age, the dental work from years past tends to do that. When you neglect to visit the dentist on a regular basis, the list of things that need to be done may grow; at least this was my experience. I left the dentist office with an extensive list of things I needed to have done. The office staff was very kind. They are working with me to set up a plan. I’m going to share some ideas on how to tackle a dental treatment plan, keeping it affordable and not too overwhelming.

Archive

Tags

 

FAQs About Dental Appliances And CPAP Machines For Sleep Apnea

4 January 2016
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

Share

There are several traditional and non-traditional methods of treating sleep apnea. The use of dental appliances and a CPAP machine are two of the most common. If you are considering treatment from either of these devices, here is what you need to know. 

What Dental Appliances Are Used?

There are two types of dental appliances that your doctor could recommend. The mandibular advancement device, or MAD, is similar to a mouth guard and helps to move your jaw forward while your sleep so that your airways remain open. 

The tongue retaining device helps to keep your tongue from interfering with your airways. This particular device can take some time to get used to. 

What Is a CPAP Machine?

The continuous positive airway pressure machine, or CPAP, uses a mask to help blow air at a certain pressure into your airway so that it remains open. There are different models of the machine available, including those that fit only over your nose and those that cover both your nose and mouth. 

The machine is usually recommended for nightly use. Adjustments might need to be made to the mask to help find the right one for you. 

Which One Should You Use?

Both the dental appliances and CPAP machine are considered to be effective methods of treating sleep apnea. Regardless of which one you opt to use, you have to be willing to commit to its use. 

There are some pros and cons to both that can impact which device you ultimately select.

For instance, dental appliances are considered to be comfortable to wear at night and less of a distraction while sleeping than the CPAP machine. The dental appliances are also easier to travel with because there is less equipment involved. However, it is possible to experience jaw pain, sore teeth, and dry mouth. 

CPAP machines are available in a variety of styles, so it is likely that you can find a mask that is comfortable for you. Some machines are available in a smaller size that makes them easier to travel. However, you can still experience dry mouth and infections are possible in the respiratory area if not properly cleaned.

If you are still unsure which device is best for treating your sleep apnea symptoms, consult with your doctor or dentist. He or she can help you further assess the benefits of each and provide a recommendation on the best sleep apnea appliance for you.