Sleep appliances, also known as sleep apnea appliances or oral sleep appliances, are custom-made oral devices designed to manage sleep-related breathing disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
These appliances are prescribed by dentists or sleep specialists and are used as an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which some patients find uncomfortable or difficult to use.
Sleep appliances work by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep, reducing the instances of airway collapse and apnea events.
They are particularly helpful for mild to moderate cases of OSA and can be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications to improve sleep quality and overall health.
Sleep appliances offer a convenient and non-invasive treatment option for patients who may not tolerate CPAP well or for those seeking a more portable and travel-friendly solution to manage their sleep-disordered breathing.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment for individual cases of sleep apnea and ensure proper fitting and monitoring of the sleep appliance’s effectiveness.