Sleep apnea, often accompanied by snoring, is closely associated with teeth grinding (bruxism). Patients with mild, moderate, or advanced sleep apnea frequently experience tooth wear caused by grinding. At Contemporary Dentistry & Implantology in Peabody, MA, our specialist Prosthodontist provide custom-made snore guards and mandibular advancement devices (MADs) to address these issues effectively, offering patients a more restful sleep and improved oral health.
A snore guard is a custom oral appliance designed to treat snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This small, flexible device resembles a night guard or athletic mouthpiece and is crafted from durable thermoplastic material for maximum comfort. It does not require any moving parts, masks, hoses, or batteries, making it a simple and convenient solution. The snore guard is easy to maintain and can be cleaned with a regular toothbrush.
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is another effective option for managing sleep apnea. This custom-made oral appliance repositions the lower jaw (mandible) slightly forward, helping to keep the airway open and prevent snoring and pauses in breathing during sleep. Here’s how MADs work:
- Custom Fitting: Impressions or digital scans of your teeth are taken to create a device that fits securely and comfortably.
- Repositioning Mechanism: Upper and lower trays fit over your teeth and are connected by a mechanism that allows precise adjustments to the lower jaw’s position.
- Airway Expansion: Moving the jaw forward increases airway space, preventing the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing and obstructing the airway.
- Improved Muscle Tone: Helps tighten the muscles around the airway, reducing the risk of collapse.
Benefits of Snore Guards and MADs
Both snore guards and MADs provide numerous benefits for patients with sleep apnea:
- Effective Treatment: Ideal for managing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- Non-Invasive: A convenient and less invasive alternative to CPAP therapy or surgical treatments.
- Portable and Easy to Use: Lightweight and travel-friendly, making them a practical solution for active lifestyles.
- Improved Quality of Life: Reduces the impact of sleep apnea and bruxism, enhancing overall health and well-being.
Considerations
While highly effective, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
- Adjustment Period: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or jaw soreness initially while adjusting to the device.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: Patients with severe sleep apnea or certain anatomical features may require alternative treatments.
- Proper Maintenance: Regular cleaning and care are essential to ensure the device’s longevity and effectiveness.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering a snore guard or mandibular advancement device to address sleep apnea or bruxism, the experienced team at Contemporary Dentistry & Implantology is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our specialist Prosthodontist and take the first step toward better sleep and improved health.
