Sleep Apnea Faqs
Medical and dental treatment options include: Positional Devices, CPAP or BiPAP, Oral Appliance Therapy and Surgery.
An oral appliance is a small plastic device that fits over the upper and lower teeth, similar to an orthodontic retainer or mouth guard. The appliance is worn in the mouth during sleep to prevent the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway. Oral appliances work by slightly advancing the lower jaw which in turn moves the base of the tongue forward and opens the airway to allow improved breathing and sleep.
If the problem is snoring only, the appliance is effective in approximately 85% – 90% of patients. When treating apnea, the appliance is 60%-80% effective, depending on the severity of the apnea. The appliance tends to be more effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. However, it can be successful for severe apnea as well.
You will be referred back to your physician for a follow-up sleep study while using the appliance. The results of the test will confirm the effectiveness of the device.
Sleep Appliances are not covered by Dental Insurance. We will give you the necessary documentation to submit to your medical insurance. However, this is a fee for service procedure.
95% of patients will adapt to the appliance within 2-7 days. It will take a few days to adapt to having a device in your mouth during sleep.