“What is a mouth guard” and “Sleep apnea” are trending on Google search as Americans are trying to find ways to get better sleep. As awareness of sleep disorders grows, more people are turning to these devices as an alternative to traditional CPAP machines. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles relax, blocking airflow. If left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, daytime fatigue, or serious problems like the risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Unlike CPAP machines, which use continuous air pressure to keep airways open, a mouth guard repositions the jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction. These custom-fitted devices are prescribed by dentists or sleep specialists and offer a quieter, more comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy. Unlike CPAP masks, mouthguards are small, portable, and require no electricity. More studies highlight their effectiveness for mild to moderate OSA.
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Thursday, June 26, 2025