FAQ

Snoring is the sound produced when your airway is partially obstructed, causing soft tissues to vibrate. While occasional snoring can be harmless, chronic, loud, and disruptive snoring is a primary symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). You should be concerned if your snoring is accompanied by gasping or choking sounds, pauses in breathing (observed by a bed partner), or if you experience excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. These are strong indicators that your snoring is a sign of a more serious medical condition.

Untreated sleep apnea is a serious health concern. The repeated interruptions in breathing cause drops in blood oxygen levels and put significant stress on your cardiovascular system. This can lead to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also results in chronic fatigue, poor concentration, and can impact your overall quality of life and safety, particularly when driving.

A dental practice specializing in sleep medicine is uniquely qualified to treat sleep apnea because the condition is often caused by anatomical issues in the mouth, jaw, and throat. As specialists in oral structures, we can provide a diagnosis and a range of non-invasive, custom-fitted solutions, such as oral appliance therapy, that directly address these underlying causes. We work in close collaboration with sleep physicians to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to your care.

CPAP alternatives are treatments for sleep apnea designed for individuals who cannot tolerate or prefer not to use a CPAP machine. While CPAP therapy is effective, many people find the mask uncomfortable, the machine noisy, or the equipment cumbersome for travel. Alternatives like oral appliance therapy offer a path to effective treatment that is often more comfortable and easier to integrate into a patient's lifestyle, ensuring better long-term adherence and improved health outcomes.

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a leading CPAP alternative that uses a custom-made dental device, similar to a sports mouthguard, worn during sleep. This device works by gently repositioning your lower jaw and/or tongue to keep your airway open. By preventing the soft tissues in the back of your throat from collapsing, it effectively reduces or eliminates the breathing interruptions characteristic of sleep apnea, leading to a quieter and more restful night.

Oral appliance therapy is clinically proven to be highly effective, especially for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It is also a viable and successful option for many with severe sleep apnea who cannot use CPAP. A comprehensive medical and dental evaluation is necessary to determine if an oral appliance is the right solution for you based on your specific anatomy and the severity of your condition.

Yes, beyond oral appliance therapy, other alternatives exist. These can include positional therapy, which uses devices to prevent you from sleeping on your back if your sleep apnea is position-dependent. Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and avoiding alcohol before bed can also be effective for some individuals. For certain cases, we may also discuss advanced therapies or surgical options in collaboration with your medical team.

The choice between CPAP and its alternatives depends on what works best for you. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea but find that you are not consistently using your CPAP machine due to discomfort, inconvenience, or other issues, a CPAP alternative may be a more sustainable option. A consultation with our team will help you explore all available options and determine the best path for your needs.

Yes, most medical insurance plans, including Medicare, provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, which includes oral appliance therapy. Your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan's deductible, copayments, and coinsurance. Our team will assist you in verifying your benefits and working with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage.

Getting started is simple. Contact our office directly to schedule your initial consultation. Our dedicated team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process, from your initial evaluation to finding the perfect treatment solution that allows you to finally get the restful and restorative sleep you need and deserve.