Imagine finally waking up refreshed and energized after a full night’s sleep, free from the constant interruptions of snoring and sleep apnea. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) offer a solution that can make this dream a reality for many sleep apnea sufferers.
If you’re curious about oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea, contact our dental office in Grand Haven to get started. Call our dentist at (616) 842-2850 to schedule an appointment.
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by breathing pauses during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep quality. These interruptions are caused by obstructions in the upper airway, often due to tissue at the back of the throat. Common sleep apnea symptoms include loud snoring, morning headaches, and fatigue.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can result in chronic fatigue, poor concentration, and even serious health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. OSA, also known as obstructive sleep apnea, is the most common form of the disorder. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available designed to tackle moderate obstructive sleep apnea and snoring issues.
Mandibular Advancement Devices, or MADs, are custom-made oral appliances designed to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea, snoring, and teeth grinding by expanding the airway through a forward movement of the jaw. Available in both custom and semi-custom designs, MADs are a popular sleep apnea treatment option.
Patients can experience various benefits with a custom MAD, including:
MADs are generally effective for individuals with specific characteristics and conditions. Ideal candidates often include those who have:
When looking for MADs as a treatment option, patients can expect the following process:
Potential side effects come hand in hand with any medical treatment, including MADs. Common side effects of oral appliances include:
When it comes to adjusting to your dental device, it can take a few weeks. During the first few nights of wearing your appliance, you may experience some initial discomfort, particularly in the jaw area. This discomfort is usually temporary and tends to improve as your muscles adapt to the new jaw position.
If you’re having trouble adjusting to your appliance, contact our dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation.
When receiving a MAD, patients can expect to spend between $500 to $2,000 depending on various factors. These factors include:
To get an estimate, contact our dental office today for an appointment.
Mandibular advancement devices are effective in treating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, with minimal side effects and a cost-effective nature. However, not everyone finds them to be successful.
To clean your MAD, use a soft toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive toothpaste. Gently scrub the device, paying attention to all surfaces, including the inner and outer parts. Rinse it thoroughly with cold water before using it again. It’s recommended to clean your MAD every morning after use.
Custom oral appliances offer a promising solution for individuals suffering from sleep apnea and snoring. With a variety of customization options and proven effectiveness in reducing symptoms, MADs provide a valuable alternative treatment to other treatment options such as CPAP and lifestyle modifications.
As you consider your options for treating sleep apnea, remember that the right treatment choice is unique to your individual needs and preferences. To schedule an appointment with our sleep dentist in Grand Haven, call us today at (616) 842-2850.