Sleep Apnoea Sydney

Teeth Grinding and Clenching Solutions

Injectable Muscle Relaxants

Used to treat bruxism, we offer injectable muscle relaxants to relieve tension in the jaw and mouth. Our experienced dentists are highly trained in facial muscles, boasting a comprehensive understanding of how to properly use injectables for pain and bruxism relief.

Injected into the jaw, the solution works to relax muscles and prevent clenching and grinding throughout the night. This results in fewer headaches and reduced pain.

Sleep Apnoea Relief

At Pitt St Dental Centre, we supply quality oral appliances to assist with sleep apnoea relief and treatment. A serious condition affecting sleep and quality of life, sleep apnoea involves restricted and halted breathing during sleep. Sleep apnoea often jolts sufferers awake as the body resumes breathing, resulting in frequently disturbed sleep and discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is sleep apnoea?

  Sleep apnoea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to the airway becoming partially or fully obstructed. It is associated with significant health consequences including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and daytime cognitive impairment. Many people with sleep apnoea are unaware they have it, as the most noticeable signs occur during sleep.

• What are the signs that I might have sleep apnoea?

  Common signs include loud or frequent snoring, waking with a dry mouth or headache, daytime fatigue despite a full night of sleep, and observed pauses in breathing during sleep. Not everyone who snores has sleep apnoea, and not everyone with sleep apnoea snores loudly. If you experience persistent unexplained fatigue or any of these symptoms, a clinical assessment is recommended.

• How can a dentist help with sleep apnoea?

  Dentists are well positioned to identify signs of sleep-disordered breathing and can provide custom oral appliance therapy as a treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnoea. Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw to help maintain an open airway during sleep. A referral to a sleep physician may also be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment pathway.

• How is an oral appliance different from a CPAP machine?

  A CPAP machine delivers continuous pressurised air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. An oral appliance is a custom-fitted device worn in the mouth that repositions the jaw to achieve a similar effect without a machine or mask. Oral appliances are often preferred by patients who find CPAP uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently.

• Do I need a sleep study before starting oral appliance therapy?

  A formal diagnosis through a sleep study is recommended before beginning treatment, as it confirms the severity of the condition and guides the appropriate treatment approach. Your dentist can discuss the referral pathway at your consultation. Patients who have already completed a sleep study can bring their results to inform the treatment plan directly.

• How long does it take to adjust to an oral appliance?

  Most patients adapt to wearing an oral appliance within a few weeks, though some initial jaw tenderness, increased saliva, or mild discomfort is common in the early stages. Follow-up appointments allow for adjustments to optimise the fit and comfort of the appliance. Consistent nightly use is important for the appliance to function as intended.

• What are the health consequences of untreated sleep apnoea?

  Untreated sleep apnoea is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and cognitive decline. The repeated disruption to oxygen levels during sleep places ongoing stress on multiple body systems. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is important for reducing these long-term health risks.

• How do I care for my oral appliance?

  The appliance should be rinsed with cool water and cleaned gently with a soft toothbrush after each use. Avoid hot water, which can distort the material, and store the appliance in its protective case when not in use. Bring it to follow-up appointments so your dentist can monitor the fit and condition over time.

Comfortable Oral Appliances