Sleep Apnea Treatment in Dubbo
The Impact of Interrupted Sleep
Sleep is meant to restore the body and mind, but for people living with sleep apnoea, the night can be filled with interruptions. This condition occurs when the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnoea, often goes undiagnosed yet can significantly affect health and daily life.
Common Signs and Health Risks
Snoring is the symptom most people notice first, but its effects extend far beyond the noise at night. Many adults also experience ongoing fatigue, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, or waking with a dry mouth. Left unaddressed, the condition has been associated with high blood pressure, cardiovascular strain, and a higher risk of stroke. Recognising the warning signs is the first step in protecting both your health and quality of life.
How Dentistry Can Play a Role
Oral Appliance Therapy as a Comfortable Solution
For many people, oral appliance therapy is sometimes used as an alternative to CPAP machines. These devices are custom-fitted to sit comfortably in the mouth while you slumber. By gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue, the appliance helps keep the airway open, reducing snoring and limiting episodes of interrupted breathing.
Oral appliances can offer advantages such as being small, easy to travel with, non-invasive, and often more comfortable than bulky equipment. They are also quiet, which can improve rest for both the patient and their partner.
Simple Changes to Support Better Rest
Lifestyle adjustments can also improve outcomes when paired with dental care. These steps, combined with oral appliance therapy, may support better rest and overall wellbeing. Helpful strategies may include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Sleeping on your side instead of your back
- Avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bedtime
- Keeping a consistent sleep schedule
The Importance of Collaboration and Care
Managing this disorder requires teamwork. A dentist provides the device and ongoing checks to ensure it works well, while your doctor oversees the medical side of diagnosis and monitoring. This partnership helps provide thorough care and ongoing monitoring for your condition.
How We Treat Sleep Apnea
At Smile on Dubbo & Narromine, we’ve successfully treated numerous patients using custom-made mouthguards designed specifically for sleep apnoea. These appliances gently reposition the jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open throughout the night and reducing the risk of blockages.
Get More Restful Sleep
If you snore heavily, struggle with daytime fatigue, or have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, contact Smile on Dubbo & Narromine to discuss whether a custom oral appliance could be suitable for you.
