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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Walsingham
Diagnosed with sleep apnea? Walsingham patients can learn how a dental oral appliance may fit into medical treatment, who is suitable and how fit and follow-up work.
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Serving Walsingham households from our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WalsinghamWorking with your physician
Dental appliances can play a role in managing sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, causing breathing pauses, loud snoring and poor rest. It is a medical condition that needs diagnosis through a sleep study. For some people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, or those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine, a custom oral appliance may be one treatment option.
Walsingham patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or suspect they may have it, can talk with the dentist at our Port Dover office. The dentist can explain whether an oral appliance may be suitable and will work alongside your physician or sleep specialist, who oversees diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis first
Sleep apnea must be diagnosed medically.
Signs of sleep apnea
Loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, pauses in breathing noticed by a partner, morning headaches, daytime sleepiness and difficulty concentrating can all suggest sleep apnea. It is linked to high blood pressure and other health concerns. If you notice these signs, talk with your family doctor.
The role of a sleep study
A sleep study, done at home or in a sleep clinic, is needed to diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity. The dentist cannot diagnose sleep apnea. If you have not had a sleep study, the dentist may suggest speaking with your physician before considering an oral appliance.
Oral appliances
Appliances help keep the airway more open.
Repositioning the jaw
Mandibular advancement devices are custom-made appliances worn over the teeth at night. They gently move the lower jaw forward, which can help keep the airway open and reduce snoring and breathing interruptions. The amount of advancement can usually be adjusted gradually.
Who may be a candidate
Oral appliances may be considered for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or for people who cannot use CPAP. Candidates need healthy teeth and gums and enough teeth to hold the appliance. Jaw joint problems may affect suitability. The dentist will examine your mouth and discuss whether an appliance is reasonable.
Fitting
Fitting and adjusting takes several visits.
Records and design
The dentist takes impressions or scans of your teeth and records your bite. The appliance is custom-made to fit your mouth. At the fitting appointment, you learn how to insert, remove and clean it. The initial jaw position is set, and you begin wearing it at night.
Adjusting for effectiveness
Over the following weeks, the dentist may gradually adjust the appliance to find the most effective position while keeping it comfortable. A follow-up sleep study, arranged through your physician, may be recommended to confirm the appliance is working. Ongoing communication with your sleep specialist is important.
Long-term care
Monitoring helps the appliance stay effective.
Side effects and comfort
Some people notice jaw soreness, tooth tenderness, excess saliva or dry mouth at first. These often improve with time. Over the long term, appliances can cause changes in bite, which the dentist monitors. Report persistent jaw pain, bite changes or loose teeth.
Regular follow-up
Bring the appliance to regular dental visits so it can be checked for wear and fit. Clean it daily as instructed and store it in its case. Continue follow-up with your physician or sleep specialist, since sleep apnea can change with weight, age and health.
Planning your appointment
Discussing an appliance in Port Dover
Walsingham patients can call our Port Dover office and mention a sleep apnea diagnosis or symptoms. Ask what information from your physician or sleep study would be helpful to bring.
Bring sleep study results, a referral or letter from your physician if available, and a list of medications.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Sleep apnea appliance questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
No. A physician makes the diagnosis, typically after a home or clinic sleep study. If possible signs show up during an exam, the dentist may encourage you to raise them with your doctor.
Is an oral appliance as effective as CPAP?
CPAP is often more effective for severe sleep apnea. Oral appliances can work well for some people with mild to moderate apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP.
Will the appliance change my bite?
Over time, some people notice bite changes. The dentist monitors this at regular visits. Report any changes so they can be assessed.
How long does it take to get used to?
Many people adjust within a few weeks. Mild jaw or tooth discomfort often improves. Contact the office if discomfort persists.
Can I use a store-bought snoring device instead?
Over-the-counter devices are not designed to treat diagnosed sleep apnea and may not fit well. Talk with your physician and dentist about suitable options.
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