+ How do I find out I have sleep apnea?

Many individuals with sleep apnea have no idea they have it. Common symptoms include chronic daytime sleepiness, impaired cognitive function, waking up frequently during the night, dry mouth or a headache upon waking, and/or loud and chronic snoring that may be accompanied by pauses, choking, or gasping. Another common symptom is grinding and tooth wear, as individuals will sometimes grind their teeth to try to open their airway.

Your partner may notice these symptoms based on your sleep patterns. A proper diagnosis requires a physical examination, analysis of your medical and family history, and a sleep study to record your brain activity, heart rate, blood pressure, chest movements, air movement through your nose, and blood oxygen levels.

+ Who is most likely to have sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is more common in men but can also occur in women and children. It is also more common in individuals who are overweight. Those with a narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, an enlarged uvula or soft palate, or a family history of sleep apnea are also at risk. The risk of developing sleep apnea increases with age.

+ What are the best treatment options for sleep apnea?

A CPAP machine or surgery may be recommended to treat sleep apnea. However, it is estimated that 75% of patients are noncompliant with wearing their CPAP as the machine can be bulky, noisy, and uncomfortable. If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and cannot (or will not) wear a CPAP, we can make an oral appliance for you.

Many people prefer oral appliance therapy because it is non-invasive and is more comfortable, easy to maintain, easy to wear, quiet, portable, and convenient. Oral appliance therapy may be appropriate for individuals who are incompatible with a CPAP machine. This form of treatment is best for those with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

+ How will Oral Appliace Therapy improve my quality of life with sleep apnea?

Oral appliance therapy will help you sleep better and improve your breathing during sleep. People with obstructive sleep apnea who use an oral appliance at night can have higher quality sleep, more energy, more mental clarity, and greater emotional stability. This simple, yet effective form of treatment promotes a healthier body, mind, and heart.

+ How long does an appliance last?

Nothing lasts forever. Your appliance is going to be used every night for 6-8 hours. We anticipate that your appliance will need to be replaces in 5-7 years. This could be sooner in people who are heavy bruxers and clenchers or those who do not take care of their appliance.