We are the only dental office in New Mexico that relies on a proven, science-backed approach to provide lasting relief from chronic sleep problems as well as jaw, head, and neck pain.
Finding someone to help you improve your sleep is a difficult process. After all, this is a very important aspect of your life. Fortunately, we are always available to help you achieve the deep sleep you deserve. If you have any questions or concerns, we are always happy to help. In the meantime, here are some things for you to take into consideration.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common chronic condition that occurs when the soft tissues collapse and block the airway while you sleep. This can cease breathing hundreds of times per night for anywhere from a few seconds to over a minute! These repeated breathing pauses can result in reduced oxygen levels and disturbances in sleep that are noticeable during the day.
CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth. It is connected to a tube that allows air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. On the other hand, oral appliance therapy consists of wearing a custom-fit mouthguard while you sleep to support the jaw in a more forward position to help maintain an open airway. Sometimes a combination of the two treatments is ideal to address sleep apnea.
Oral appliances are customized using impressions. The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the oral appliances are made. Once they are ready, you can return to the office for a fitting. Then, we will adjust the appliance to maximize its comfort and effectiveness. We will show you the best ways to clean and maintain the appliance.
Many patients find oral appliances comfortable to wear in comparison to a sleep mask. Oral appliances are customized to fit your mouth and made of lightweight material. Oral appliances are also customized to ensure maximized comfort and effectiveness. If you ever have any issues with your oral appliance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team so we can help.