Sleep Apnea FAQ

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These interruptions can occur up to 40 times a minute and may last as long as 60 seconds, disrupting your sleep and reducing the oxygen flow to vital organs.

It is estimated that around 15 million people in the U.S. have sleep apnea, with many undiagnosed. Often, sufferers wake up feeling unrefreshed, as their sleep is disturbed by their body’s struggle to breathe properly during the night.

Diagnosis of sleep apnea is typically made by a sleep specialist. If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, It is important to consult your primary care doctor. They can refer you to a specialist for a sleep study, which will determine whether sleep apnea is present and assess its severity.

Key signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring, sometimes interrupted by pauses
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
• Feeling tired and drowsy during the day
• Waking frequently at night to urinate
• Dozing off while working, reading or driving
• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Mood changes, anxiety or depression
• Trouble concentrating and memory lapses

Common treatment options include CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines and oral appliances. At our practice, we provide custom-made oral appliances which positions your jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. Oral appliances are often a great option for those who cannot tolerate other treatment options or who are looking for a more comfortable treatment option to manage theri sleep apnea. In the case of severe sleep apnea, surgery may be considered.

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a variety of health risks, such as:

• Increased risk of accidents at work or while driving
• Heart disease and stroke
• Weight gain
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Liver problems
• Immune and respiratory system issues
• Poor hormone regulation
• Lower quality of life

If you think you may have sleep apnea, reach out to our office. Our team will work alongside your physician and sleep specialists to accurately diagnose and treat your condition, prioritizing your health and wellbeing.

Most medical insurance plans, including Medicare, cover treatments for sleep apnea. Since it is considered a medical condition, dental insurance will not provide coverage. We recommend checking with your insurer to verify your benefits.

Oral appliance therapy helps manage sleep apnea by gently moving the lower jaw forward, which prevents the tongue from blocking the airway. This slight repositioning promotes better airflow, allowing for uninterrupted breathing during sleep.

Oral appliance therapy may be suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Ideal candidates include:

• People who snore
• Individuals already diagnosed with sleep apnea
• Those who struggle to tolerate CPAP machines
• Anyone experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea

Yes, oral appliances are custom-made for comfort, designed to fit snugly without being invasive, much like wearing a retainer.

Most people find the adjustment process smooth. Wearing an oral appliance is similar to using an orthodontic retainer, and most patients adapt quickly.

Oral appliances work by slightly repositioning the jaw, so it is important to be treated by a qualified provider such as our dental sleep specialist. Your jaw, gums and bite will be carefully evaluated to ensure the appliance fits properly and does not cause issues with your oral or overall health.

As your sleep apnea is managed, your snoring should decrease over time, improving both your sleep quality and that of those around you.

If you struggle with CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy may be a great alternative. Our oral appliances help open your airway while you sleep and promote proper breathing, so you get the rest you need.

Using an oral appliance when traveling can offer a more convenient option, eliminating the hassle of transporting your CPAP while ensuring you receive effective treatment to get the quality sleep you need.

No, we strongly advise against using over-the-counter oral appliances for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea requires professional treatment from a qualified doctor. Custom-fitted oral appliances need to be monitored and adjusted to ensure they are effective and safe.