A dental device for sleep apnea pulls the lower jaw forward. Since the base of the tongue is attached to the back of the lower jaw, when you pull the lower jaw forward, it automatically pulls the tongue forward. The forward positioning of the lower jaw and tongue prevents the tongue from falling back into the throat and blocking the airway.

          In most cases, patients find that a dental device for sleep apnea is easy to wear especially since it's not an active machine like the cpap. Wearing it may avoid the need for surgery. One operation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is to section the lower jaw and move the bone holding the tongue forward. It makes sense to always choose the dental appliance first since you always have surgery as an option later if it doesn't work.

          A dental device for sleep apnea can be effective with the obstructive type. There are several forms of sleep apnea and it does not work for all of them. A sleep study should be done to confirm OSA and the physician should suggest a dental approach. However, most physicians will not do this and usually treat the disorder themselves. Patients must educate themselves and become aware of all of their options.

           Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky is a sleep apnea dentist who practices with the Atlanta Dental Group PC in the Midtown/Buckhead area of Atlanta, Georgia. The dentists working at the group are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are interested in a dental device for sleep apnea and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.