Oral appliances to treat Spokane sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition in which a person stops breathing altogether or breathes in a very shallow manner many times during sleep. This deprives the body of vital oxygen and causes stress to the heart and brain. It is important to have it diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

There are several reasons why a person might suffer from sleep apnea. One of the most common is when the tongue folds back or collapses onto itself. This disrupts breathing through the air passage. Another reason that sleep apnea might occur is when the airway becomes very narrow as muscles of the throat relax too much during sleep.

Mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea may be treated effectively with an oral appliance. These appliances work in two ways – they can keep the lower jaw in the correct position so that the airway stays open, or reduce the amount of movement allowed by the tongue. Both an oral appliance and a continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machine may be used to treat severe sleep apnea.

A physician diagnoses sleep apnea, and your dentist and the physician typically work together to treat severe cases. Working with a dentist who has experience administering oral appliances is a crucial factor in successfully treating sleep apnea. This type of appliance must be made to exacting measurements in order to ensure comfortable fit and correct function (an ill fitting appliance can cause new problems to arise).

Dr. Doug Brossoit has the experience and significant knowledge of sleep apnea and oral appliances necessary for successful treatment. He can determine which type of device is right for the patient’s situation – a tongue retaining appliance to keep the tongue forward (this prevents it from blocking the airway during sleep); or a mandibular repositioning appliance that holds the jaw slightly protruded to keep the airway open.

Dr. Brossoit’s dentistry enhances lives, one smile at a time. He can also enhance sleep quality for Spokane residents who suffer from sleep apnea, with oral appliances.

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