Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards

The standard form of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is usually most effectively done through continuous positive airway pressure therapy, or CPAP therapy. However, new research from The Netherlands’ University of Groningen shows that oral appliances are an effective alternative form of treatment. This is especially true for those suffering from mild to moderate apnea. Fortunately for those who are uncomfortable with the forced air pressure and mask associated with the CAP therapy, there are a number of mouth guard appliances to choose from for treatment.

A mouth guard for sleep apnea can function in two different ways: MAD or TRD. The mandibular advancement device, or MAD, is very similar to the typical sport’s mouth guard or orthodontic retainer in appearance. This oral appliance functions by positioning the lower jaw forward to hold it in place throughout the entire time you are asleep. By placing the jaw forward, this alleviates any form of blockage from occurring at the back of the throat. This allows for the air to flow naturally in and out of the airways during sleep. TRD, or the tongue retraining device, is the alternative form of the sleep apnea mouth guards. The TRD holds the tongue in place as a splint, restraining it from falling to the back of the throat during sleep.

According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, there are more than 100 different oral appliances approved by the FDA for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. There are plenty of mouth guard appliances that can be bought over-the-counter, but they are not as effective as a custom-fit mouth guard provided by a sleep apnea specialist. Being fitted for your mouth guard is easy, though, as some dentists are trained in sleep apnea to provide this form of treatment.

If you are unsure about whether or not you suffer from sleep apnea, contact our sleep apnea center in Los Angeles to schedule a sleep study for proper diagnosis.