951-695-6269There are many types of oral appliances. Most appliances are used to protect your teeth, prevent them from moving or open your airway to encourage better breathing during sleep. Some of the most common oral appliances include:
- Night Guard: A night guard is a special type of mouth guard that is used to treat bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching. If our dentists or team suspect that you suffer from bruxism, we may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth from damage and prevent teeth grinding while you sleep.
- Retainers: A retainer is a custom-made oral appliance often used to maintain the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. If you have finished your orthodontic treatment, our dentists may recommend a retainer to keep your smile properly aligned. As you age, your teeth tend to shift; the retainer ensures that your teeth remain in correct alignment for optimal oral health, functionality and appearance.
- Sleep Apnea Appliances: These are often recommended for mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring disorders. Sleep apnea and snoring occur when the airway is obstructed. In the case of someone with sleep apnea, breathing may stop entirely for a few moments. Airway obstructions are typically caused by the soft tissues of the throat “collapsing” or the tongue rolling back to block the throat and airway. Oral appliances help keep the airways open so that you can breathe normally while asleep.
For more information about oral appliances in Temecula, California, and to schedule a consultation with our dentists, Dr. K. Pat Brown and Dr. Matthew Wasemiller, contact our office at 951-695-6269 today. We are committed to your overall health and well-being.