What Is Dental Sleep Medicine (DSM)?

Dental Sleep Medicine (DSM) is an area of dentistry that focuses on treating sleep disorders, particularly obstructive breathing problems, through custom-made oral appliances. Dr. Lawson and her team in Greater Des Moines are experienced in providing these appliances as a CPAP alternative for patients with obstructive sleep issues. Unlike CPAP, which involves wearing a mask and using a machine, oral appliances are discreet and comfortable, making them an ideal solution for many people.

Whether you are looking for an alternative to CPAP or exploring new ways to manage your sleep disorder, Dental Sleep Medicine offers a patient-friendly approach to achieving better rest.

Oral Appliance Therapy: The Leading CPAP Alternative

At Lawson Dentistry, the most effective and widely recommended CPAP alternative is Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). This treatment involves wearing a custom-designed dental appliance while you sleep, which gently repositions your jaw to keep your airway open. This prevents airflow obstruction, often leading to snoring and poor sleep quality.

For patients in Urbandale and the surrounding areas, Oral Appliance Therapy offers a noninvasive, comfortable solution that promotes restful sleep without the bulk and inconvenience of CPAP machines. Patients quickly adjust to wearing their oral appliances, finding them easy to use and maintain.

How Do Oral Appliances Work?

Obstructive sleep issues, including sleep apnea, occur when the airway becomes blocked due to the relaxation of muscles during sleep. This blockage can cause snoring and frequent disruptions to your sleep. Oral appliances prevent the airway from collapsing by repositioning the lower jaw, allowing for smooth airflow throughout the night.

These sleep apnea dental appliances are:

  • Custom-fitted to your mouth for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
  • Portable, making them convenient for travel.
  • Easy to maintain, requiring only simple cleaning as directed.

Because these appliances are tailored to fit your mouth, they provide a comfortable experience while helping you achieve restful sleep, night after night.

The Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

Patients across Urbandale have experienced life-changing results with Oral Appliance Therapy. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Comfort: Custom-made to fit your mouth, the appliance is designed to feel natural and unobtrusive.
  • Portability: Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are small and easy to transport, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
  • No Noise: Since no machines or masks are involved, you can sleep soundly without disruptive noise.
  • Effective for Different Ages: We also offers pediatric oral appliances to treat sleep disorders in children, ensuring they get the healthy sleep they need for proper growth and development.

Whether you’re an adult seeking relief from obstructive breathing issues or a parent looking for solutions for your child, Oral Appliance Therapy can improve sleep for people of all ages.

Advanced Technology for Custom Sleep Appliances

Our dental office uses cutting-edge technology to create custom oral sleep appliances that fit perfectly and deliver optimal results. Our practice utilizes 3D printing technology to ensure each appliance is uniquely tailored to your mouth for comfort and efficiency. This modern approach guarantees a precise fit without unnecessary pressure on your teeth or jaw.

For patients who experience teeth grinding or other jaw-related issues, We offer flexible and durable sleep appliances that can withstand these additional challenges while maintaining their effectiveness in treating sleep disorders. With these advancements, you can rest assured that your treatment plan will be customized to meet your needs and lifestyle.

Holistic Dentistry and Sleep Health

We believe in a holistic approach to oral health and sleep medicine. When designing your treatment plan, our dentist considers the health of your entire mouth, including your teeth, gums, and jaw. This whole-health perspective allows us to provide a broader range of care, from safe amalgam removal to improving oral health and function.

This holistic focus treats your sleep disorder and enhances your overall dental care. We recognize the connection between a healthy mouth and body, ensuring your treatment plan is as comprehensive as possible.

Take a Home Sleep Test: A Simple Start to Better Sleep

One of the most convenient aspects of treating sleep disorders with Dental Sleep Medicine is the availability of home sleep tests. Instead of going to a sleep clinic, you can complete a sleep study in your bed. A medical professional analyzes this data, and Dr. Lawson can use the results to create a customized treatment plan just for you.

Ready to take the first step toward better sleep? We are here to help you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment.

Reclaim Your Sleep with Dental Sleep Medicine

Don’t let sleep disorders compromise your health and well-being, call us at (515) 278-4366 today. With Dental Sleep Medicine and Oral Appliance Therapy, you can enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep without CPAP. Dr. Lawson, serving Urbandale and Greater Des Moines, is committed to helping you regain restorative sleep.