Sleep Disorder Treatment for lasting comfort

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a form of sleep-disordered breathing. This condition is rooted in lax muscles and tissues at the back of the throat. When these tissues become overly relaxed during sleep, individuals with OSA cannot breathe consistently and adequately. Soft tissues block their airways. The flow of air is impeded. Those with sleep apnea may be unable to breathe dozens of times each hour. In the act of self-preservation, individuals’ brains force them awake. So their airways can be reopened. 

Treatment at Hunt Valley Dental

Dr. Thomas Rhodes has effectively restored healthy breathing for patients throughout Maryland. Interruptions in breathing and sleep stand in the way of individuals getting the quality rest they need to be healthy, productive, and happy. In turn, prompt and effective treatment options are a “must” to avoid the many complications associated with OSA. Additionally, the options available at our Baltimore-area office “get used.” Conventional treatments have been associated with a low patient compliance rate. CPAP has long been a “standard” therapy to support healthy, sustained breathing. However, the design of this well-established treatment is not “patient-friendly.” Some sleep apnea sufferers never get used to wearing a mask. Furthermore, the mask is connected to a hose that delivers “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure” generated by a machine. Due to the noise produced by this machine, CPAP therapy can adversely affect how other members of the patient’s household sleep, too.

CPAP treatment is not “travel-friendly” and can be difficult for some patients. CPAP masks and air pumps can both harbor germs. When not cleaned properly and consistently, bacteria and mold may flourish. This situation can lead to a whole range of problems, from rashes and skin infections to respiratory infections, congestion, lung irritation, and asthma flare-ups. 

Our approach at Hunt Valley Dental is, first and foremost, effective. Dr. Rhodes designs oral appliances such as Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) for appropriate patients. These devices are made to conform to the contours and unique specifications of each patient’s mouth. So they fit comfortably and precisely. Simply slip the MAD into your mouth and over your front teeth. The device does the rest! It repositions or advances the mandible (lower jaw). In turn, the throat tissues are also repositioned or moved out of the way. When they relax, these tissues no longer block the airway. Upon waking, you feel rested, and reinvigorated. Your bodily systems and organs are no longer “stressed” due to repeated episodes of depressed oxygen. You can be the best possible parent, spouse, partner, employee, leader, colleague, and friend. 

Oral appliance therapy is also:

• Easy to care for 
• Highly portable – simply slip it in a small case and go
• Safe 
• Comfortable – you’ll forget the device is in your mouth
• Quiet (family-approved!)

No single treatment is universally appropriate; however, MAD therapy has been life-changing for many patients. 

Call (410) 771-6300 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Rhodes at Hunt Valley Dental. You may also request an appointment at the button on this website.