Chronic snoring can affect patients to varying degrees, but for many, the condition can be addressed with a custom-designed snore guard. Patients who exhibit sleep apnea, however, are often prescribed a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which prevents airway blockage by providing a gentle stream of air through a mask. For patients with sleep apnea who wish for a more comfortable alternative to CPAP, we can often custom-designed alternative sleep solutions in the form of personalized oral appliances.
The Difference a Sleep Appliance Makes
Sleep apnea is the chronic cessation of your breathing at night. When you sleep, mouth and throat tissues collapse into your airway, creating a growing obstruction that eventually stops you from breathing. CPAP prevents this blockage by creating a continuous stream of air that is delivered through a mask, which you must wear while you sleep. By contrast, an oral appliance prevents airway obstruction by supporting your lower jaw in a way that comfortably widens the airway and prevents tissues from obstructing it. For many patients, the appliance provides more restful sleep than CPAP because there is no noisy machine or cumbersome mask to deal with.
Why Personalization Matters
For a sleep appliance to work, it has to both comfortably support your jaw and keep your airway clear. To do so, every appliance must be custom-designed according to each patient’s unique needs. Your appliance will be designed according to highly precise, digital measurements of your teeth, jaws, and oral structures to ensure optimal comfort and results. If your condition is severe enough to require CPAP, then a custom sleep appliance may still be incorporated to ensure your treatment’s success.
Ask Us About Personalized Sleep Solutions
With a personalized sleep solution, you can sleep better without having to rely on a CPAP machine and mask. To learn more, call Houston Sleep Solutions in Spring, TX, at (281) 320-2000, or in Pearland, TX, at (832) 564-3508.
