By: Doctor Solanch Morales
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes breathing disruptions during sleep, leading to health risks like high blood pressure, heart disease, and fatigue. While CPAP machines are common treatments, orthodontic solutions can effectively address certain cases.
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep, often causing loud snoring, gasping, daytime drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when relaxed throat muscles obstruct airflow.
Orthodontic treatments focus on correcting jaw and dental misalignment that contribute to airway obstruction. By adjusting the positioning of the jaw, teeth, and palate, orthodontists can help improve airflow and reduce apnea episodes. Here are some of the key orthodontic solutions for sleep apnea:
Mandibular Advancement Splints
Custom-made oral appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), are designed to reposition the lower jaw and tongue to prevent airway blockage. These devices are comfortable, portable, and less intrusive than CPAP machines, making them a popular choice for mild to moderate sleep apnea cases.
Palatal Expanders
For children and young adults, palatal expanders can be used to widen the upper jaw, increasing airway space and reducing the risk of obstruction. This treatment is particularly beneficial when sleep apnea is linked to a narrow palate.
Braces and Aligners
Orthodontic treatments like braces and clear aligners can correct misaligned teeth and jaws, which may contribute to breathing issues. By improving bite alignment, these treatments can help open up the airway and improve sleep quality.
Orthodontic treatment for sleep apnea is most effective for individuals with structural jaw or dental issues contributing to airway obstruction. A consultation with both an orthodontist and a sleep specialist can help determine the best treatment approach based on the severity of the condition.
Even though the leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea is muscle-related, an orthodontic issue can also be a culprit. Throat muscles may have nothing to do with the blocked airway and instead may be due to an orthodontic problem that includes:
When a doctor suspects the cause of sleep apnea is orthodontic, they will refer the patient to an orthodontist for further evaluation and management. While orthodontists do not diagnose sleep apnea, they can play a crucial role in its treatment through various orthodontic interventions.
An orthodontist may determine that a dental appliance is the most appropriate treatment. In such cases, these devices offer several advantages over CPAP machines, including:
In some cases, orthodontic devices may need to be used in conjunction with a CPAP machine. However, in certain scenarios, orthodontic treatment may eventually eliminate the need for CPAP therapy altogether.
Orthodontics offers an effective, comfortable alternative to traditional sleep apnea treatments. If you struggle with sleep apnea, consulting an orthodontist could significantly improve your sleep and overall health.
Dr. Solanch Morales – DMD, MBA, ABO
Board Certified Orthodontist
