Sleep Apnea Dentist
Sleep apnea mouth guards from Dr. Carol Jin, DDS, in San Ramon are an effective alternative to CPAP machines. We can provide you with an easy-to-use and comfortable mouth guard for your sleep apnea. Whether you are struggling with a bulky, loud, and uncomfortable CPAP machine or have only recently been diagnosed, Dr. Jin specializes in oral appliance therapy and will work with you and your doctor to find the right solution for your specific condition.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, also known as OSA, is a condition where your airway is repeatedly blocked as you sleep. It can lead to more serious health conditions if left untreated, such as heart disease or a stroke. We recommend completing a sleep study with your primary doctor, as OSA can be difficult to diagnose. There are several warning signs that may be reported by friends or loved ones, though, as you may not even realize what is going on.
- Loud Or Frequent Snoring
- Choking Or Gasping
- Fatigue
- Restless Sleep
- Insomnia
- Morning Headaches
- Teeth Grinding
There Are Other Treatment Options
Your typical face mask CPAP machine is the most conventional treatment for OSA, but new technology has developed in the form of oral dental devices. These oral appliances are more portable and custom-fitted to your mouth. There are many types of sleep apnea oral devices now on the market, but Dr. Jin particularly recommends a few FDA-approved appliances.
- TAP
- SomnoMed
- Adjustable Herbst
- MicrO2
Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards
Dental appliances for sleep apnea are similar to a dental night guard or a bite guard. They are worn during the night, and their primary function is maintaining an open airway. Unlike a CPAP, these dental mouth guards are comfortable, silent, easy to use, and easy to travel with.
Fight Severe Sleep Apnea With TAP
The TAP oral device is highly effective, even for severe sleep apnea cases. It keeps your airway open so that you can breathe properly, bringing the lower jaw forward to prevent the airway from closing and causing a gap in your breathing. You will be able to get a better night’s sleep with much less snoring.
SonoMed — Adjustable Oral Appliances
The SonoMed OSA oral device allows your mouth to open and close rather than remaining in a fixed position all night. Dr. Jin can gradually advance the lower jaw to the exact point where your snoring and OSA are reduced to acceptable levels. This oral appliance allows you to open and shut your mouth and lips. So you can talk and drink liquids with it in place.
Adjustable Herbst
The Adjustable Herbst is a small oral device more appropriate for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring. With proper adjustment, you can talk or take medication while wearing it. Dr. Jin can help you determine which adjustable oral appliance is most suitable for your degree of sleep apnea.
MicrO2, Your Key To Comfort
MicrO2 is the smallest and most comfortable OSA oral device to date. This oral appliance leaves more space in your mouth and lets you easily open and shut your mouth while wearing it. Your comfort is always our priority.
Are Alternate Treatment Options Right For You?
Whether alternatives to a CPAP machine will work for you or not does depend on the severity of your OSA. Lifestyle changes, such as changing your sleep position and losing weight, can help boost the effectiveness of your treatment. In more severe cases, you might require surgery if you have tried other treatment options in the past and nothing has worked. Talking with your primary care doctor about your options and concerns can help you choose.
Improve Your Quality of Life Today
CPAP machines can be intolerable, loud, and hard to keep on. Don’t let your sleep apnea go untreated when there are more comfortable options. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Carol Jin if you’re interested in a sleep apnea mouth guard in the San Ramon area. Dr. Jin will work with your doctor to determine whether an oral appliance for sleep apnea is the right treatment option for you.