Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterised by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses can occur multiple times throughout the night, disrupting the natural sleep cycle and leading to various health complications. When breathing is interrupted, the body and brain may not receive enough oxygen, which can result in daytime fatigue, mood changes, and even serious health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
To address sleep apnea and improve breathing during sleep, many individuals turn to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. CPAP machines work by delivering a steady stream of air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, keeping the airway open and preventing pauses in breathing. While CPAP therapy is highly effective for many individuals, some may encounter challenges that make it difficult to use consistently.
Common challenges associated with CPAP machines include discomfort from the mask, feelings of claustrophobia, dry mouth or nose, skin irritation, and noise from the machine itself. Additionally, adjusting to wearing the mask and maintaining proper mask fit can be challenging for some users, leading to frustration and reluctance to use the machine consistently.
Fortunately, for those who struggle with CPAP therapy, there is an alternative solution: Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) or Oral Appliances. MADs are custom-made dental devices that are worn during sleep to help keep the airway open by gently advancing the lower jaw forward. This helps prevent the collapse of soft tissues at the back of the throat, reducing or eliminating the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Unlike CPAP machines, MADs are small, portable, and easy to use. They are custom-fitted by the Beacon Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic to ensure a comfortable and secure fit, minimising discomfort and maximising effectiveness. MADs are also silent and non-intrusive, allowing for more freedom of movement during sleep.
At the Beacon Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic, we understand that CPAP therapy may not be suitable for everyone. That’s why we offer Mandibular Advancement Devices as an effective alternative for managing sleep apnea. Our experienced team of dental professionals specializes in custom-fitting MADs to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness for our patients.
If you’re struggling with CPAP therapy or are seeking an alternative solution for managing sleep apnea, we encourage you to explore the benefits of Mandibular Advancement Devices. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better sleep and improved overall health.
