Can Invisalign® Help With Sleep Apnea?

Posted on September 13th, 2023 | Dr. Kerry Lowery

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

There are three forms of sleep apnea, including central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and complex sleep apnea. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is rooted in the brain while obstructive sleep apnea is caused by a physical blockage of the upper airway.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which a person stops breathing or breathes irregularly during sleep. This is the most common form of sleep apnea and is caused by an oral obstruction of some variety.

Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep disorders come with a variety of symptoms and OSA is no different. Some of these symptoms include:

• Snoring

• Feeling Tired/Groggy

• Dreams of Drowning

• Waking Up Gasping, Choking, or Short of Breath

• Trouble Focusing

• Insomnia

• Night Sweats

• Waking Up With Dry Mouth or Sore Throat

• Headaches

• Easily Agitated

• Changes in Mood

• Depression

• Anxiety

• High Blood Pressure

• Others Have Observed You Stop Breathing During Sleep

Symptoms of sleep apnea can easily disrupt your daily life. Unfortunately, over time they can also become more serious. Sleep apnea has been associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and various other health conditions. Sleep apnea has even been linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

If you’re suffering from sleep apnea it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to protect your overall health.

Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by various factors and conditions that lead to a physical blockage of the upper airway. This can include:

• Enlarged Tonsils

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Narrowed Airway

• Nasal Congestion

• Use of Sedatives or Tranquilizers

• Use of Alcohol

• Various Medical Conditions

• Orthodontic Issues

When orthodontic issues are the cause of your sleep apnea, they can usually be fixed through orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign.

Invisalign for Sleep Apnea

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment plan typically used to help straighten teeth and improve the appearance of patient smiles. However, Invisalign can also be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea can be linked to orthodontic issues. For example, in cases of a narrow bite or over-crowded teeth, there may not be enough space for the tongue. This can lead to backward displacement of the tongue and airway blockage. Invisalign can realign teeth, reducing obstructions by reframing the oral structure.

Invisalign treatment for sleep apnea can be time-intensive, but it can also offer a permanent solution to your sleep disorder. This hinges on the absence of additional factors that may exacerbate the condition, such as substantial weight gain or smoking.

Given the duration of orthodontic treatment, it might be beneficial to use a CPAP machine until your treatment is complete. This device can ensure adequate oxygen supply during sleep and thereby reduce the risk of severe complications.

Invisalign & Sleep Apnea Treatment in Park Ridge

If you’re struggling with sleep apnea in Park Ridge, IL, our team at Beyond Smiles can help. We treat patients with sleep apnea and other breathing disorders, orthodontic issues, TMJ pain, etc.

If you have obstructive sleep apnea, Invisalign might offer a solution. Contact us at Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge to learn more about your treatment options and schedule an Invisalign consultation.

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