Sleep apnea is a common disorder that impacts millions of individuals globally. It is a disease in which a person experiences breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and daytime fatigue. One of the ways to treat sleep apnea is through the use of guards. Guards are dental devices designed to help prevent teeth grinding and clenching, which can contribute to the development of sleep apnea. This article will explore the connection between sleep apnea and night guard and how they can work together to improve sleep quality.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnoea or apnea is a sleep disorder in which an individual’s breathing stops and begins repeatedly while sleeping. It can cause loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, and daytime fatigue. There are two sorts of sleep apnoea: obstructive, which is induced by a blockage of the airway, and central, which is caused by a failure of the brain to send signals to the muscles to respire. Sleep apnea can also increase the risk of other health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Therefore, seeking treatment is essential if you presume you may have sleep apnoea.
What are night mouthguards?
Guards are dental devices designed to prevent teeth from grinding and clenching. They are made of a soft, flexible material worn over the teeth while sleeping. Guards can help reduce the pressure on the teeth and jaw, contributing to the development of sleep apnea. A night mouth guard can also help alleviate other dental problems caused by teeth grinding and clenchings, such as tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and headaches.
How do guards work for sleep apnea?
Guards work for sleep apnea by helping to reduce the pressure on the teeth and jaw. This can help prevent teeth grinding and clenching, which can contribute to developing sleep apnea. A night guard can also help to reposition the jaw and tongue, which can help to keep the airway unobstructed during sleep. Guards are generally more effective for treating mild to moderate sleep apnea. For severe cases of sleep apnea, a healthcare professional may recommend other treatment options, such as CPAP therapy or surgery.
Are guards effective for treating sleep apnea?
Research has shown that guards are an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that guards improved sleep quality and reduced the frequency and severity of apnea episodes in patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that guards were as effective as CPAP in treating mild to moderate sleep apnea. Additionally, guards are particularly effective for individuals with positional sleep apnea, which occurs when the airway is blocked in certain sleeping positions. Overall, guards offer a viable and effective option for individuals with sleep apnea who are unable or unwilling to use CPAP.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea can be a severe sleep disorder that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Guards can be a valuable tool in treating sleep apnea, as they can help reduce the pressure on the teeth and jaw and reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea or if you grind your teeth at night, it is essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to decide on the best method of therapy for your needs.
Author Bio:
Steffy Alen is a copywriter and content strategist. She helps businesses stop playing around with content marketing and start seeing tangible ROI. She loves writing as much as she loves the cake.
