Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects millions of people across the United States, disrupting their sleep and negatively impacting their overall health. While treatments like CPAP machines or lifestyle changes are the most common treatments for the disorder, orthodontic treatment can also play a role in addressing your condition. But how exactly do braces help with sleep apnea, and who can benefit from this approach?
In this blog, we’ll help you understand what sleep apnea is and whether orthodontic treatment is a good option for relieving symptoms.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that results in your breathing repeatedly starting and stopping. Many people who experience this disorder discover it as a result of their frequent snoring. There are a few different types of the disorder, including:
- Obstructive (OSA): This most common form of the disorder occurs when the muscles in your throat relax and block airflow into your lungs.
- Central (CSA): With this, your brain doesn’t send the appropriate signals to the muscles in control of your breathing.
- Treatment-Emergent Central: This occurs when OSA converts to CSA after receiving therapy for OSA.
There are several symptoms you may experience if you have sleep apnea, including:
- Loud snoring
- Headaches in the morning
- Gasping for breath in your sleep
- Insomnia
- Irritability
In more extreme cases, it can result in heart strain and increased blood pressure. While you may believe you’re experiencing this disorder, it is essential that you seek an official diagnosis from your healthcare provider. With this treatment, you can begin crafting an appropriate treatment plan.
Sleep Apnea and Orthodontics
Although sleep apnea has a negative impact on your sleep and comfort throughout the day, it may also have an impact on your oral health. Many individuals experiencing the disorder sleep with their mouths open. Sleeping with your mouth open can increase your risk of developing cavities and gum disease, bruxism, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
If you are dealing with this sleep disorder, there are several treatments you may consider. But, one treatment you might not think about is orthodontics. While this might seem like an odd treatment to seek for a sleep disorder, it can make a major difference in your oral health, sleep, and overall comfort.
While the problem is most often related to your throat muscles, your doctor may find that the position of your tongue and teeth impacts your ability to breathe. In cases where it is related to your teeth, you may want to consider getting braces, Invisalign, or other oral devices that can hold your jaw in a better position while you sleep.
Orthodontic treatment can help by addressing misaligned teeth or a poorly positioned jaw, which may contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. Correcting these issues enhances your ability to breathe more freely at night and reduces the risk of complications associated with sleep apnea, such as daytime fatigue and cardiovascular strain.
Additionally, orthodontic solutions can improve the alignment of your bite, alleviating discomfort and preventing excessive wear on your teeth. Discussing your options with both your doctor and orthodontist is essential for finding the best treatment plan for your needs.
How Long Will You Need to Wear Your Orthodontic Device?
Your treatment length for your orthodontic device will vary depending on the severity of your condition, the type of device used, and your specific treatment plan. For many patients, oral appliances are worn nightly for as long as treatment is needed, which could be several months to several years.
These devices are often a long-term solution, particularly if they effectively alleviate symptoms and improve sleep quality. If braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic treatments are recommended to address structural issues contributing to sleep apnea, the treatment timeline typically ranges from 12 to 24 months.
After treatment, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain the corrected alignment and ensure lasting results. If you are considering orthodontic treatment to treat your sleep apnea, it is best to reach out to your orthodontic team for support. They will provide you with a detailed treatment plan and timeline to ensure you can breathe easier.
Achieve Comfort with Bailey Orthodontics
Sleep apnea can significantly impact your comfort throughout the night, but with the help of our team at Bailey Orthodontics, you can find relief. Our team provides patients across Northern Utah with the most reliable orthodontic treatment. From traditional metal braces to Invisalign, we’re confident we have an orthodontic solution best for your smile.
In addition to our expert treatments, our team provides patients with excellent online resources and regular in-office support. If you ever have any questions, our team is always available to help. If you’d like to schedule an appointment to discuss your orthodontic options to treat sleep apnea or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
