Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea, but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that bulky throat tissue could potentially obstruct airways – especially if patients have certain lifestyle factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment we offer for sleep apnea and snoring is the same. By prescribing a custom oral appliance, we can widen the airway to prevent snoring and episodes of apnea. These oral appliances are soft and comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.
Anyone, at any age, can have sleep apnea. Even though snoring can accompany sleep apnea, it is not always a symptom of this sleep disorder. For this reason, it is important to have a sleep study conducted to determine if apnea is occurring. Our practice provides take-home sleep study machinery to detect episodes of apnea during sleep. After you finish using it, return the device to our practice, and we will analyze the data collected. If we find sleep apnea or determine that snoring is affecting your quality of life, we will provide treatment recommendations.
The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender. The most common risk factors include:
- Being over age 40
- Having a large neck (over 17 inches in men, 16 inches for women)
- Being overweight – approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight
- Being male – more men than women suffer from OSA
- Having a large tongue or small jaw
- Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (particularly in children)
- Using alcohol or sedatives, which relax the muscles in the airway
- Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems
While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of the mask and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. As a result, many users have difficulty using them or do not wear them.
An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably, and can provide similar treatment benefits.
You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm its effectiveness. A consultation with the sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.
Because insurance plans vary widely, our experienced team will work with you to see if your insurance company will cover the oral appliance. If it isn’t covered for any reason, we will let you know and work with you to develop a financial plan if needed.
If coverage is available for oral appliances, it will come from your medical insurance carrier. Most dental insurance companies do not cover treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.
Our patients tell us it is well worth the investment of their time and money to treat their sleep apnea because of the improved quality of life they experience.
We offer financing options and will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.
Most patients adapt to the appliance within 5-10 days. It will take a few days to get used to having a device in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance will not hurt your teeth. If your teeth are sore after initial use, we can easily adjust it for your comfort.
They are made of hard acrylic, which is very durable. They are typically replaced every 3-5 years depending on wear and tear. If you grind your teeth, you may need to replace them more often.
A change in your bite is possible. Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with a morning repositioning device.
The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, some patients experience minor tooth movement.
Obstructive sleep apnea is unlikely to decrease with age; therefore, your oral appliance will probably be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.
While you can order over-the-counter appliances, keep in mind they are not FDA-approved for treating sleep apnea. Also, if they aren’t fitted properly, they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.
