Introduction 

Sleep apnea is one of the common sleeping disorders influencing the breathing patterns of individuals at night, and it directly connects with overall health. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are one of the most recommended or popular treatment of sleep apnea. Conversely, oral dental appliances are customized specifically for sleep apnea. Sometimes, snoring also creates difficulty in sleeping at night because it blocks your airway pressure in the respiratory system. This article discusses the different types of oral appliances and the costs associated with them. This guide offers insights to people seeking different sleep apnea treatments. Let’s cover them one by one.

What Exactly Sleep Apnea is and Why It Happens

Before discussing different dental devices, gaining some knowledge of sleep apnea is essential. This issue arises when the muscles in the back of the throat relax, which temporarily blocks the airway. This disrupts breathing patterns that cause sleep, features and a plethora of health issues. 

What Are Different Types of Oral Appliances Used in the Treatment of Sleep Apnea?

Various dental appliances are used in sleep apnea treatment houston. Some of them are mentioned below:-

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

MADs, abbreviated as Mandibular Advancement Devices, are one of the commonly used devices for treating sleep apnea disorders. These devices look like sports mouthguards placed on the lower jaw to keep the airways open at night. This becomes a preferable choice for many people because these can be customized as per individual needs and are adjustable.

The cost of Mandibular advancement devices depends on the insurance coverage. Sometimes, it may cover a portion of the cost, while other times, it covers the full amount. So, it is essential to communicate with your insurance provider.

Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)

Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs) are oral appliances that are often used to get cure from sleep disorders in sleep apnea clinic houston. They keep the focus on retaining the tongue in a forward position, protecting it from disrupting the breathing process and collapsing it backward. People with particular anatomical features that deal with sleep apnea conditions are frequently advised to use these devices.

Combination Therapy Devices

Some people benefit from a blend of both MADs and TRDs. This sleep apnea appliance aim to focus on multiple factors associated with sleep apnea, considering a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Devices

Both customized and over-the-counter (OTC) options are available for sleep apnea dental appliances. Customized appliances are designed as per the impressions of individual teeth, are more focused on customization, and are more effective than conventional treatments. On the other hand, over-the-counter devices are cost-effective but may offer a different level of customization.

Conclusion

Apart from MADs and (TRDs), other oral appliances such as CPAP and BPAP machines are available that can also be used in treating sleep apnea. These dental devices offer a wide range of benefits, such as improving sleep quality and overall health and helping individuals to keep active throughout the day. The sleep apnea dental devices cost may vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage, the type of oral appliance you’re using and customization. Get advice from a sleep specialist or dentist about which oral appliance suits you best.