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How Oral Appliance Therapy Can Improve Your Overall Health?

Author : Ephrata Family Dentistry | Published On : 09 May 2023

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a non-invasive treatment option for sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders that is gaining popularity. It involves using a custom-fitted device that fits over the teeth to keep the airway open during sleep, thus preventing snoring and sleep apnea. But did you know that OAT can also improve your overall health? The top-rated dentist in Ephrata PA, specializing in oral appliance therapy, can significantly improve your overall health and well-being.

Let's Ponder!

# What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Mandibular advancement device (MAD) or oral appliance therapy is a sleep apnea treatment approach that involves using a custom-made appliance that fits over the teeth. The gadget works by moving the lower jaw and tongue forward, which aids in maintaining an unobstructed airway as you sleep. The gadget can lessen snoring and avoid sleep apnea, which can have a substantial negative impact on general health, by keeping the airway open.

# How Oral Appliance Therapy Can Benefit Your Health?

  • Improved Sleep Quality:

One of the most significant benefits of oral appliance therapy is that it can improve the quality of your sleep. Sleep apnea and snoring can interrupt your sleep cycle, causing you to wake up feeling tired and groggy. By keeping the airway open during sleep, oral appliance therapy can reduce snoring and prevent sleep apnea, allowing you to get a good night's rest.

  • Reduced Risk Of Cardiovascular Disease:

An increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and stroke, has been associated with sleep apnea. Treating sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy can reduce your risk of these severe health conditions. Studies have shown that oral appliance therapy can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

  • Improved Cognitive Function:

Sleep apnea can also hurt cognitive function, including memory, attention, and concentration. By improving sleep quality, oral appliance therapy can help to improve cognitive function and overall brain health.

  • Reduced Risk Of Diabetes:

Sleep apnea and diabetes are closely related. Both those with type 2 diabetes and those who have sleep apnea are at an elevated risk of getting the disease. Treating sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy can reduce your risk of developing diabetes and improve your overall health.

  • Better Mood And Emotional Well-Being:

Sleep apnea can also hurt mood and emotional well-being. Depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are more prevalent in those with sleep apnea. By improving sleep quality, oral appliance therapy can help to improve mood and emotional well-being, leading to a better overall quality of life.

  • Improved Quality Of Life:

Finally, oral appliance therapy can improve the overall quality of life. Oral appliance therapy can help you feel more rested, energized, and focused during the day by reducing snoring and preventing sleep apnea. This can lead to better performance at work, improved relationships, and a better overall sense of well-being.

Oral appliance therapy in Ephrata may be a viable treatment option if you struggle with sleep apnea or other sleep-related disorders. Not only can it improve the quality of your sleep, but it can also reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, improve cognitive function, reduce your risk of diabetes, enhance mood and emotional well-being, and improve your overall quality of life. If you want to know if oral appliance therapy is right for you, go to your doctor.