Intraoral appliance therapy is a treatment method that involves using devices placed inside the mouth to address various dental and medical conditions. These appliances are typically custom-made and used to treat issues like bruxism (teeth grinding), temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and sleep apnea.
The most common intraoral appliances are nightguards or splints, which are designed to protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching. These devices help relieve jaw tension and alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders, such as pain, headaches, and clicking sounds in the jaw.
For patients with sleep apnea, intraoral appliances can reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. These appliances are effective in treating mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, improving breathing and reducing snoring.
Intraoral appliance therapy is a non-invasive solution that can significantly improve quality of life by addressing these common dental and health concerns.