How Oral Devices Can Help You Sleep: Dr. Brian Briesemeister Explains

Sleep apnea can make restful sleep seem impossible. This condition causes your airway to become blocked while you sleep, which wakes you up many times during the night. If you have sleep apnea, you might feel tired all day, find it hard to concentrate, or even have mood swings. Sleep apnea can also lead to more serious health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure.

In this article, we will explore what oral devices for sleep apnea are and how they can benefit you. Dr. Brian Briesemeister will also explain how he customizes these devices to fit your needs. By understanding how these devices work and how to care for them, you can take the first step toward better sleep and health.

What Are Oral Devices for Sleep Apnea?

Oral devices for sleep apnea are small, custom-made appliances that you wear in your mouth while you sleep. These devices help keep your airway open by adjusting the position of your jaw and tongue. This prevents the tissues in your throat from collapsing and blocking your airway, which causes interrupted breathing during sleep apnea episodes.

There are different types of oral devices, but most of them work similarly. The most common ones are called mandibular advancement devices (MADs). These move your lower jaw slightly forward, keeping your airway open. Other types are tongue-retaining devices (TRDs), which hold your tongue forward to clear the airway.

Dr. Brian Briesemeister at the Center for Sleep & TMJ in Chesapeake can help determine which type of oral device best suits your needs. He carefully tailors each device to fit your mouth, ensuring it is comfortable and effective. Oral devices are a great option if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea or cannot tolerate more invasive treatments. They are an easy and practical solution to improve sleep and overall health.

Benefits of Using Oral Devices for Sleep

Using an oral device for sleep apnea offers several benefits that can enhance your quality of life. Here are some key advantages:

1. Improved Sleep Quality

Oral devices keep your airway open, reducing snoring and interruptions in breathing. This helps you get a deeper, more restful sleep and feel refreshed.

2. Comfortable and Non-Invasive

These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth, making them comfortable to wear. They are also non-invasive, requiring no surgery or extensive medical procedures.

3. Easy to Use

Oral devices are simple to put in and remove. Unlike other treatments, they don’t require complex machinery or settings, making them user-friendly.

4. Portable and Travel-Friendly

Because oral devices are small and lightweight, they are easy to take when traveling. This makes it easy to stick to your treatment plan even when away from home.

5. Quiet Operation

Oral devices operate silently, unlike other treatments that can be noisy. This means they won’t disturb your sleep or your partner’s sleep, leading to a more peaceful night for both of you.

Dr. Brian Briesemeister emphasizes the importance of choosing the right oral device and using it consistently. When you follow his advice and use your device every night, you can experience these benefits and enjoy a healthier, more energized life.

How Dr. Brian Briesemeister Customizes Your Oral Device

Dr. Brian Briesemeister at the Center for Sleep & TMJ in Chesapeake takes special care in customizing your oral device to fit your unique needs. The process begins with a thorough examination of your mouth and jaw. Dr. Brian Briesemeister checks your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to ensure an oral device suits you.

Once it's decided that an oral device will help, Dr. Brian Briesemeister takes detailed impressions of your teeth. These impressions are used to create a model of your mouth, which allows you to design a perfect device. This custom fit is crucial because it ensures that the device is comfortable to wear and effective in keeping your airway open.

After the device is made, Dr. Brian Briesemeister will have you come back to the office for a fitting. During this appointment, he will make necessary adjustments to ensure the device fits snugly but comfortably. He will also show you how to put it in, take it out, and care for it. With Dr. Brian Briesemeister’s careful customization and fitting process, you can feel confident that your oral device will help improve your sleep.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Oral Device

To get the most benefits from your oral device, Dr. Brian Briesemeister offers several tips:

1. Wear It Every Night

Consistency is key. Wear your device every night to keep your airway open and improve your sleep.

2. Clean Your Device Regularly

Clean your oral device daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and damage the device.

3. Store It Properly

When not in use, keep your oral device in its case. To prevent damage, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

4. Attend Follow-Up Appointments

It is important to have regular appointments with Dr. Brian Briesemeister. He will check the fit and function of your device and make any necessary adjustments.

5. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel each morning. If you notice any discomfort or soreness or if your symptoms don’t improve, contact Dr. Brian Briesemeister right away.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your oral device works effectively. Taking good care of your device and wearing it consistently will help you enjoy better sleep and improved health.

Conclusion

Using a custom-made oral device can be a game-changer for managing sleep apnea. Dr. Brian Briesemeister at the Center For Sleep & TMJ in Chesapeake is dedicated to providing top-quality, personalized care. By understanding oral devices, learning about their benefits, and following Dr. Brian Briesemeister’s tips for use and maintenance, you can take the first steps toward better sleep and a healthier life.

Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life any longer. Reach out to the Center for Sleep & TMJ today and schedule an appointment with Dr. Brian Briesemeister. He will help you find the perfect oral appliance for sleep apnea. Your journey to restful nights and energized days starts here!