Understanding Sleep Apnea: Types, Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Use of Mouth Guards

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses, lasting a few seconds, are followed by abrupt inhalations that often produce loud snoring. This condition not only affects the quality of sleep but also impacts the wellbeing of others nearby. It is prevalent among children and older adults. Severe cases can lead to serious health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. Diagnosis typically involves experiencing five or more breathing pauses per hour.

Types of sleep apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): caused by airway blockage.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): due to insufficient effort to breathe, as throat muscles relax excessively.

Mixed Sleep Apnea: a combination of both OSA and CSA.

OSA is the most prevalent, especially among men. Common symptoms include daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, vision issues, and insomnia. Additional signs include dry mouth, morning headaches, mood swings, and teeth grinding. In severe cases, breathing interruptions can cause low oxygen levels, risking life-threatening complications. A mouth guard designed for sleep apnea can alleviate symptoms to some extent.

Major causes of sleep apnea

Excess weight and obesity

Enlarged tonsils or tongue

Nasal congestion or sinus issues

Allergies leading to airway obstruction

Large neck circumference or small jawbone structure

Gastroesophageal reflux

Management and treatment options

At-home measures include weight reduction, adjusting sleep positions (avoiding sleeping on the back), and avoiding alcohol and sedatives. Quitting smoking can also help reduce airway inflammation.

If lifestyle changes are insufficient, medical intervention may be needed. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which uses a mask connected to a machine to maintain airflow, is common but can disrupt sleep. Alternatively, dental devices such as custom-made sleep apnea mouth guards offer effective solutions. In severe cases, surgical options might be necessary.

A sleep apnea mouth guard is an oral appliance tailored by a dentist to fit comfortably. It works by repositioning the lower jaw forward, preventing airway collapse and reducing snoring. These guards are safe, adjustable, and designed to last about a year. They help alleviate mouth pain caused by teeth grinding and support various dental conditions. Compared to nasal strips or pillows, mouth guards are often more effective in providing restful sleep and waking up refreshed.