Sleep Apnea Dental Device (VIVOS)

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes you to temporarily stop breathing throughout the night. It can be caused by a blocked airway, which interrupts breathing while you sleep. The common types of sleep apnea are:

1. OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) – OSA is caused by a blocked airway, often caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses. This leads to loud snoring, gasping, and/or choking during sleep.

2. CSA (central sleep apnea) – CSA is caused by the brain failing to signal the muscles to breathe. This often occurs when the brain isn’t able to send signals to the muscles as it does for OSA.

3. MSA (mixed sleep apnea) – Mixed sleep apnea is a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea. This means the airway is partially blocked, and the brain fails to signal to breathe.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Other than snoring, sleep apnea can also cause patients to feel tired throughout the day, have difficulty concentrating, experience headaches, and wake up frequently during the night. All of these symptoms can be very disruptive in a person’s life and can affect their personal and professional lives.

What is VIVOS?

VIVOS is an oral appliance that reinforces the jaw to help keep the airway open during sleep. The device is custom-made and worn during sleep. Here are some of its advantages:

• The VIVOS device is a small, custom-made, removable oral appliance that is worn while you sleep. It’s BPA-free and composed of medical-grade silicone.
• This device is non-invasive, which means no surgery is required. It’s also comfortable and is placed over both your upper and lower teeth.
• This device is most effective at treating mild to moderate sleep apnea.

What happens after VIVOS?

Once you have your sleep apnea dental device, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment. You’ll have X-rays taken in order to check the device’s fit. Your dentist will also show you how to properly clean and care for the device.

To find out more about the dental services offered at West Lake Dental Care, call 704-483-1870 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 298 N. Hwy 16 Suite E, Denver, NC 28037.