C hronic Fatigue Syndrome is a complex condition characterized partly by severe fatigue that persists for six months or longer. Also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, CFS is also associated with sleep problems. These sleep problems include difficulty falling asleep and remaining that way. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), too, is associated with persistent fatigue even with greater rest. Our talented team of biological dentistry practitioners at Shane Nelson, DDS in Overland Park, Kansas can restore uninterrupted, healthy sleep and fight prolonged fatigue. 

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) at the dentist’s office

Sleep apnea is caused mainly by lax tissues in the throat. During sleep, these tissues block the airway. Patients with OSA can’t breathe soundly through the night. Since their breathing may be interrupted several times each hour, patients with OSA are constantly fatigued. They tend to feel tired throughout the day, no matter when they go to bed. This condition also stresses major organs, such as the heart. So, patients with OSA are at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other serious medical conditions.

Oral appliance therapy can help with daytime fatigue, as well as with symptoms of CFS if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, too. Since CFS is a complex condition, treating your sleep apnea may improve your energy levels; however, it does not address underlying issues such as immune dysfunction that are often associated with true CFS. For appropriate patients, our holistic dentist, Dr. Shane Nelson, provides effective and hassle-free relief from the persistent lethargy that can dominate your life. Our approach is to customize a device or oral appliance to fit your mouth. These oral appliances may be designed in various ways. They all have similar goals in mind – to reposition the mouth and tissues, so they do not block your airway during sleep. 

One of the most common OAT designs is known as a “mandibular advancement device,” which simply refers to advancing or moving the lower jaw (mandible) forward. By repositioning the jaw, this device also repositions the tongue, moving it further away from the back of the throat. This stops the airway from becoming blocked when you relax during your sleep. Another type of device is specifically designed to hold the tongue forward, which helps to keep it from collapsing backward into your airway. Like any other oral appliance, these devices are made to slip easily in and out of your mouth. 

They are also easy to wear and easy to clean. Furthermore, OAT is not noisy and does not disturb others. These appliances can be transported easily in a small container. 

When worn as directed by the right patients, our custom oral appliances can help with the unrefreshing sleep and fatigue that characterizes both conditions. Since these appliances are so discreet and comfortable, they can be a welcome therapy for patients who may not tolerate other sleep apnea treatments due to sensory challenges.

To learn more about our comprehensive, life-changing biological dentistry services, like oral appliance therapy for sleep-disordered breathing, schedule a consultation at the office of Shane Nelson, DDS. Call (913) 297-7800 to speak with a member of our team today in Overland Park, KS.

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