Do Oral Appliances Work for Sleep Apnea?

Oral appliances are usually recommended as an alternative to CPAP for sleep apnea treatment. These devices are custom made for patients by the general dentist using the mouth’s impressions. Oral appliances are not only effective for sleep apnea, but they are also sometimes good for stopping snoring.

How oral appliances for sleep apnea work

Most oral devices work by shifting the jaw forward. These are called mandibular advancement devices or jaw advancing devices and increase the size of the air passages, consequently reducing air resistance or inhibitions that cause sleep apnea and snoring. Some of these devices allow the patient to modify the extent to which the jaw is moved for comfort and functionality.

Another type of sleep apnea oral appliance is the tongue-retaining device. This consists of a splint that holds the tongue in position to ensure that the air passage stays open throughout sleep. Although anti-snoring devices work similarly, patients suffering from sleep apnea need to use a device designed specifically for their condition.

How effective are oral appliances for sleep apnea?

Although CPAP is the most popular treatment option, oral appliances are quickly becoming more common, as research proves their efficiency in treating mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea and snoring. Oral devices are typically used as a replacement for sleep apnea surgery and CPAP machines because they are more cost-effective and less invasive. The device can even be recommended in conjunction with a weight loss program for overweight patients.

While not all patients can get sleep apnea mouthpieces, as they are typically more effective for mild to moderate cases, they might also be usable for patients with severe sleep apnea who have trouble tolerating CPAP machines. It is crucial for patients to work with their dentist to know if the treatment would be suitable for them.

After the patient gets the oral device, the dental professional may request a sleep study to determine the treatment’s efficiency. Follow-up care is important to ensure that the patient is getting the appropriate treatment.

Benefits of oral appliances

By using the oral devices consistently and according to the dentist’s guidance, patients can enjoy the benefits of the treatment for sleep apnea. Most people start to notice improvements in their sleep apnea after the first night of use. Since the use of sleep apnea devices is easy and comfortable, there is a better compliance rate with the device than CPAP machines. Other benefits of oral appliances include:

  • Convenience: The devices are compact and easy to carry
  • Discreet: The mouthpiece stays in the mouth and is invisible to others
  • Less hassle: Unlike CPAP devices, oral appliances do not need electricity and therefore, do not need to be plugged into a wall to work, making them more comfortable and cheaper to use

Get an oral appliance from the dentist

The first step to take for any sleep apnea treatment is speaking with the general dentist. Be sure to discuss your symptoms when you visit the dental office. You might need to undergo a sleep study, and if you get a diagnosis for sleep apnea, the dental professional will discuss treatment options, including oral appliances.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sleep Apnea in Redwood City, CA.

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We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Redwood City, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, Implant Crowns, Dental Crowns and CEREC Crowns.

We all want our smiles to look their best, and thankfully, cosmetic dentistry can help them do that in many ways. Even though we try our best to care for our teeth, brush, floss, and we go to the dentist, bad things can still happen to our smiles that we are not prepared for. That does not mean that we cannot fix the damage that life does to our smiles; it means that we have to talk to our dentist about available cosmetic solutions and what our goals are for our smiles. 

What is cosmetic dentistry? 

There are many different dental specialties that handle different aspects of your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth, such as orthodontics, endodontics, and laser dentistry. Cosmetics is another type of dental specialty that works to improve the look of your smile. The way your smile looks is important for many reasons. Smiling is the first thing many people see when they meet someone. It boosts our self-confidence and self-esteem and makes us more approachable and confident. 

Having a smile that is in rough shape can impact your quality of life, including how you appear to others, but it can also lead to health problems and the inability to enjoy some of the things you used to enjoy. 

Chances are you may have already had some type of cosmetic dental procedure done before without even realizing it. One of the great things about cosmetic procedures is that many of them actually improve the health of your smile as well. 

What procedures are considered cosmetic?  

Many procedures are categorized as cosmetic; even braces can sometimes be considered cosmetic by the insurance company if the tooth alignment issue is not severe enough to cause serious issues. 

That being said, there are plenty of procedures that patients seek out just to make their smile appear that much better. 

The most common cosmetic dentistry procedure is teeth whitening. Dental teeth whitening uses powerful chemicals to penetrate the surface of the teeth to remove staining in the deep layers of the enamel and make the teeth many shades whiter. A bright white smile is what most patients want most from the dentist, and you can thank this cosmetic procedure for a whiter smile. 

Whether you want a whiter smile, to cover up some chips and cracks, or need to hide severe damage to your smile while you have it worked on, you can find a cosmetic dental procedure. It is is important to find the solution that works best with your goals and dental needs. 

Discuss options with your dentist  

Cosmetic dental procedures are an important part of going to the dentist. A great-looking smile is a way to improve how we think and feel about ourselves, and a cosmetic dentist has lots of ways to help improve your smile. From straightening to whitening, a better smile is just a few steps away. Reach out today to learn more. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentistry in Redwood City, CA.

Dental implants are becoming a very popular choice for replacing missing teeth. Many patients ask about implants because they are known to look and feel the most like natural teeth. 

Any person could need to replace a missing tooth or teeth for a variety of reasons. You may not have kept up on your oral hygiene as well as you should have and now may suffer from periodontal disease. Another reason to replace teeth could be because you have suffered a major accident.

Regardless of the reason to need to replace missing teeth, you do not have to live with a smile that isn’t perfect. With today’s technology, you can get a new smile with the help of your dentist in very little time. 

What are dental implants?

These replacement teeth are screwed directly into your jawbone by using titanium screws. This titanium screw will, in time, fuse to the living bone cells in your jaw. The replacement tooth, also known as the crown, is made of porcelain over metal material and looks like your natural tooth. The implant is secured to the abutment. This is a connector that can only be removed by your dentist. These artificial teeth are the most effective long-term solution. They fit, feel, and function like your original teeth. 

How much do they cost?

These replacement teeth can be very costly. You must discuss all your options with your dentist in depth before deciding. You can call your dental insurance coverage provider to determine if they will cover any or all the costs. 

If you find out you will be left with an out-of-pocket expense, you can ask your dental office staff if you can set up payment arrangements or if they have financing available to help you with your implant expense. The price of getting implants is possible with either of these options. 

How do implants feel inside your mouth?

Implants are popular because they look and feel as natural as your original teeth. You take care of them just as you would your natural teeth as well. You can brush and floss them. Your implants allow you to resume eating any food you want. You can go on with life as if you don’t even have false teeth. 

You should always establish and keep up with a proper oral hygiene routine. Make and keep your routine six-month checkups to ensure your implants are in good condition. These visits are where you can discuss any concerns you have with your dentures. They will address them and help you maintain the best oral health possible. 

Your smile with your dental implants in place will remain confident and white. There is no need to go without replacing your missing teeth in today’s world. There are many options available that are safe and effective, and within your reach. Ask your dentist about implants as a replacement option.

Contact your dentist

The first step to getting dental implants is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Dental implants can help to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. Call today to maintain your beautiful smile. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Redwood City, CA.

Considering a full mouth reconstruction? This treatment is recommended when individuals have missing or severely decayed teeth. Read on to learn more about what is involved in this type of oral restoration.

6 Things to know about full mouth reconstruction

Outlined below are a few common questions and answers about full mouth reconstructions. It can be helpful to review the following information when considering this treatment.

1. What does a full mouth reconstruction involve?

full mouth reconstruction involves replacing, rebuilding, and reconstructing the oral cavity through different procedures, such as bridges or implants. Functionality, esthetics, and form are all the dentist’s focus when performing a full mouth reconstruction.

2. How long does the full mouth reconstruction process take?

The process varies for each person, however, most individuals require multiple appointments in order to get the desired results. In some cases, the dentist may be able to successfully reconstruct the oral cavity in one visit, however, other times, multiple appointments over a few weeks or months may be necessary.

3. What is recovery from full mouth reconstruction like?

Recovering from varies per patient, however, for the most part, there are a few general expectations that are good to be aware of. Individuals will experience discomfort, sensitivity, swelling, and inflammation, all of which require constant attention to remedy and manage. General dentists recommend the following for a successful recovery:

  • Rinse with saltwater or a prescribed rinse to keep the mouth clean and disinfected
  • Eat a diet consisting of soft foods or liquids
  • Avoid touching the wounds
  • Take pain medication, whether prescribed or over-the-counter
  • Change gauze carefully and gently

4. Is a full mouth reconstruction painful?

It can be, yes. However, general dentists want individuals to understand that the pain is temporary and can be managed with medication and at-home remedies. Individuals will not feel pain during the full mouth reconstruction itself, but rather after the procedures have been completed. The dentist can prescribe pain medication, as well as oral rinses to keep the mouth clean during the healing process. Rinses eliminate the need to brush as usual, which may induce further discomfort.

5. Are there any benefits to full mouth reconstruction?

The benefits of full mouth reconstruction include the ability to replace an entire arch of teeth all at once, which can be convenient for individuals looking to get everything done at one time. Additionally, the treatment can significantly restore bad oral health which is oftentimes the result of having missing teeth.

6. What are the risks of full mouth reconstruction?

There are not a lot of risks associated with full mouth reconstruction, however, general dentists do like patients to know that there is the potential for complications to occur. Most treatments involve the placement of dental implants in order to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are almost always successful, but in some rare situations, they may be rejected by the body, which can result in discomfort and a need for more in-depth treatment.

Getting started with full mouth reconstruction

When looking to learn more about the full mouth reconstruction process, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist. Further questions can be appropriately addressed and an evaluation can be done in order to identify the best place to start. Reach out today get scheduled for an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Full Mouth Reconstruction in Redwood City, CA.

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