Most people take breathing for granted. It normally happens without a thought. However, obstructive sleep apnea, a condition characterized by shallow respiration or pauses in breathing during sleep, is a common disorder that can have serious effects on overall health.
When you think of conditions your dentist can help with, sleep apnea may not come to mind. However, the truth is that this disorder is closely linked to oral health, and is often best treated with an oral appliance made by an experienced dentist. At Leavitt Dentistry, we are proud to provide moderate obstructive sleep apnea therapy thanks to the innovative SomnoMed Avant device, helping our patients get the rest they need.
If you struggle with this condition, don’t let it disrupt your life any longer. Schedule an appointment at Leavitt Dentistry today to learn more about how we can help you breathe easier, stop snoring, and sleep better.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the jaw, tongue, and throat muscles relax during sleep, causing the airway to become temporarily blocked. As you can imagine, this has a substantial impact on sleep quality and cell renewal. People with sleep apnea wake frequently during the night as they experience stress, increased heart rate, and decreased blood oxygenation, preventing them from getting the restorative sleep they need to live happy, healthy, and active lives.
The symptoms of this condition can include:
- Snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty paying attention
- Irritability
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, come see us right away for a straightforward screening — left untreated, it can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, and other significant health concerns.
Additionally, sleep apnea leads to broken, cracked, and worn teeth, along with TMJ disorder, as the natural reaction to open the airway causes clenching and grinding during sleep. Dry mouth is another side effect that creates an environment that’s more conducive to bacterial growth, leading to cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and more.
Treating Sleep Apnea with the SomnoMed Avant Mandibular Advancement Device
There are many options out there for treating sleep apnea. Traditional CPAP machines, while effective for some people, are often bulky and uncomfortable. Consequently, an increasing number of people are turning to mandibular advancement devices (MAD), which are streamlined oral appliances that hold the jaw in a forward position, and with it the tongue and soft tissue of the throat, to keep the airway open.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we’re proud to offer the SonmoMed Avant MAD to patients struggling with common forms of sleep apnea. Resembling a mouthguard, this device has splints on the upper and lower teeth and a small flexible strap to keep the jaw in its proper position during sleep. This prevents the soft tissues in the throat from collapsing and causing airway obstructions.
The SomnoMed Avant marks a partnership between dental professionals, medical needs and engineers. By working together with expert manufacturers and taking advantage of technological innovations, we can create a device that not only alleviates sleep apnea, but is comfortable and non-obtrusive.
Creating Customized Solutions
The process of creating this customized MAD begins at our office, where we take a digital scan of your teeth and jaw position and send it off to the manufacturer. SomnoMed uses this scan to design a device tailored to the unique shape of your teeth and jaws.
From there, SomnoMed crafts the MAD using a computer-controlled milling machine and tests its fit on a 3D-printed model of your teeth. If everything looks good, they send the completed device to our office.
At your next appointment, we’ll assure a perfect fit, adjust the strap to ensure ideal jaw position, and show you how to use the device. All you have to do is put the device in before bed each night — the MAD takes care of the rest!
Advantages of the SomnoMed Avant MAD
When compared to a CPAP machine, opting for an MAD like the SomnoMed Avant provides numerous advantages, including:
- Enhanced comfort: Because the SomnoMed Avant is created especially to fit the unique shape of your mouth, you’ll experience the comfort of a secure fit and maximized effectiveness.
- Increased convenience: The SomnoMed Avant is more user-friendly than a CPAP machine, making it easier to adhere to your sleep apnea treatment plan. Its convenience, practicality, and compact design make it ideal for use anytime, anywhere.
- Better sleep quality: Our Leavitt Dentistry team will create a personalized sleep apnea treatment plan that meets your needs and goals. With a custom-made MAD device, you’ll sleep better, helping you feel more refreshed and energized.
Find Relief from Sleep Apnea at Leavitt Dentistry
Sleep apnea disrupts your life and negatively impacts your overall health. At Leavitt Dentistry, we strive to help you find relief from this damaging disorder by providing innovative solutions. With a little help from an MAD, you can experience a good night’s sleep free from breathing problems.
If you’re ready to take control of your sleep apnea, contact Leavitt Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more productive you.
