Tongue Retaining Devices: A Non-Surgical Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea

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Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality and other health issues. While there are various treatment options available, such as CPAP machines and surgery, they may not be suitable for everyone. However, there is a non-surgical approach to treating sleep apnea known as tongue retaining devices (TRDs). In this blog post, we will explore what TRDs are, how they work, and their effectiveness in treating sleep apnea.

What are Tongue Retaining Devices?

TRDs are small, flexible devices that are worn in the mouth during sleep. They are typically made of soft silicone or rubber and are designed to hold the tongue in place, preventing it from falling back and blocking the airway. TRDs are custom-made to fit an individual’s mouth and can be adjusted for comfort.

How Do They Work?

During sleep, the muscles in the throat and tongue relax, causing the tongue to fall back and obstruct the airway. This can result in snoring and pauses in breathing, known as apneas. TRDs work by keeping the tongue in a forward position, which helps to keep the airway open and prevents snoring and apneas. The device has a suction bulb that attaches to the tip of the tongue, holding it in place throughout the night.

Effectiveness of TRDs in Treating Sleep Apnea

Research has shown that TRDs can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that TRDs reduced apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) scores by 55% and snoring by 36%. AHI is a measure of the number of apneas and hypopneas that occur per hour of sleep. Another study published in the Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine showed that TRDs were effective in treating patients with both mild and moderate sleep apnea.

Benefits of TRDs

1. Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, TRDs are non-invasive and do not require any incisions or anesthesia. This makes them a safer and less intimidating option for those who are hesitant about surgical procedures.

2. Comfortable to Wear: TRDs are custom-made to fit an individual’s mouth, making them comfortable to wear. They do not cause any pain or discomfort, unlike some other treatment options for sleep apnea.

Tongue Retaining Devices: A Non-Surgical Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea

3. Easy to Use: TRDs are simple to use and do not require any complicated instructions or maintenance. They can be easily cleaned with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

4. Portable: TRDs are compact and easy to carry, making them a convenient option for those who travel frequently. They can easily fit into a small bag or purse.

5. Can Improve Overall Health: By treating sleep apnea, TRDs can improve overall health and quality of life. Sleep apnea has been linked to various health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. By improving sleep quality, TRDs can help reduce the risk of these health problems.

Drawbacks of TRDs

While TRDs can be a highly effective treatment option for sleep apnea, there are a few drawbacks to consider.

1. Not Suitable for Severe Sleep Apnea: TRDs may not be suitable for those with severe sleep apnea. In such cases, other treatment options such as CPAP machines or surgery may be more effective.

2. May Cause Discomfort: While most people find TRDs comfortable to wear, some may experience discomfort or soreness in the tongue or jaw. This may take some time to get used to, and the device may need to be adjusted for comfort.

3. Not Covered by Insurance: Unfortunately, TRDs are not always covered by insurance, which can make them expensive for some individuals.

Conclusion

Tongue retaining devices are a non-surgical approach to treating sleep apnea that can be highly effective for mild to moderate cases. They are easy to use, comfortable to wear, and can improve overall health. However, they may not be suitable for severe sleep apnea and can cause discomfort for some individuals. Talk to your doctor to determine if TRDs are the right treatment option for you.

In summary, tongue retaining devices (TRDs) are non-surgical devices that help treat sleep apnea by holding the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from obstructing the airway. They are custom-made, comfortable to wear, and easy to use. While they may not be suitable for severe sleep apnea and can cause discomfort for some, they can be a highly effective option for those with mild to moderate sleep apnea.