Sleep Apnoea and Snoring at Adelaide Dental Spa

What is Sleep Apnoea?

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common type of sleep disturbance that happens when your oxygen supply is cut off. Some people stop breathing for as long as 10 seconds or more. It occurs when there is an obstruction in the airway, sealing off the throat and preventing oxygen intake.

Having sleep apnoea can increase your risk of:

Stroke
Heart attack
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Automobile accidents (due to daytime fatigue)

If you wake up in the morning with a headache or already feeling tired, ask your sleep partner if they notice that you snore or gasp for breath throughout the night.

Anti-Snoring Oral Appliances

An oral sleep appliance helps enlarge the airway and increase oxygen flow, minimising the symptoms of sleep apnoea. Putting the appliance in your mouth helps realign the jaws so that there is no obstruction. Such devices help reduce the occurrence of snoring but are also suitable for people with severe sleep apnoea who can’t tolerate a CPAP machine.

Getting a Sleep Appliance at Adelaide Dental Spa

Before we fit you with a sleep appliance, you’ll need to have a sleep study conducted. If you don’t already have a diagnosis of sleep apnoea, the study will pinpoint which type of breathing disorder that you have. Fortunately, some types of sleep studies can be completed bedside in your own home.

During your oral exam, we’ll perform a sleep screening and evaluation to identify possible signs that you have a sleeping disorder. Let us know if you snore, experience daytime fatigue/tiredness, or have an overall lack of energy or gasp during your sleep. We will also look for physical signs, such as a restricted airway or obstruction, large neck circumference and worn or flattened teeth.

When we have a firm diagnosis of a sleeping disorder, we can take steps to treat it appropriately. If you qualify for an oral sleep appliance, all we need to do is take a mould of your mouth. From there, the prothesis is adjusted to guide your lower jaw slightly forwards. As a mandibular advancement device, it helps prevent the soft tissues at the back of your throat from sealing off your airway. Some people see results as soon as the first night they use their new sleep aid.

Health Fund Coverage & Payment Options

If you’re diagnosed with sleep apnoea, your oral sleep appliance may be covered by your health fund. Bring a copy of your health fund membership with you to your appointment, so that we can file the claim for you on the spot. Flexible financing options are also available.