Given the fact that obstructive sleep apnea can have devastating health consequences, various solutions have been looked for in the attempt to improve the condition. Thus, companies specialized in oral appliances have come up with a device that can limit the number of episodes of breathing cessation during sleep. The effectiveness of the therapy using the sleep apnea dental appliance has been remarkable as severe conditions were prevented from developing. Less hypertension and lower risks of stroke and heart disease: these are actually the expected results after using the sleep apnea dental appliance. Though most experts recommend such devices for the treatment of the mild and moderate sleep apnea cases, successes have been reputed in severe conditions as well.
A sleep apnea dental appliance is a special mouthpiece designed by the dentist to match the structure of both teeth and jaws; its main function is that of preventing the collapse of the airways and the creation of an insufficient airflow towards the lungs. The sleep apnea dental appliance pulls the tongue and the jaw forward so that the airway remains open all the time, thus ensuring proper sleep and very few awakenings, if any at all. Before the use of such a device proper medical investigations need to be conducted both with the physician and the dentist.
There are several things you should expect from a sleep apnea dental appliance; first of all depending on its complexity and the materials used, the price can range from $50 to $2,000. The most important feature to be looked for in a sleep apnea dental appliance is the comfort; if you have a device custom-made for you, then you are sure quality materials will be the guarantee of a good night's rest. Though price can influence one's choice, it is good to remember that the cheaper the materials, the less comfortable the sleep apnea appliance.
One more thing you should expect from a good sleep apnea dental appliance is the mobility of the device. The problem with the products that you purchase over the counter is that they only have one size and, therefore they will not fit all. However, if the device is custom-made, then the adjustment of the sleep apnea dental appliance is also possible for the most appropriate jaw and tongue position. Certain appliances even allow for side to side and vertical motion, which is great in terms of comfort and the prevention of any jaw health problems.
Steve Hill is a webmaster from Birmingham, he has interests in a number of websites including:
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