Frequently Asked Questions
- What is sleep apnea?
- Sleep apnea is described as a period of "not breathing" for 10 seconds or more while sleeping. The most common type is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA results from a blockage of your windpipe, which generally is caused by the tongue, tonsils, or excess tissue in the throat. You are more likely to have sleep apnea if you are obese; have high blood pressure; hypothyroidism or heart disease; suffer from depression or anxiety; abuse alcoholic beverages or smoke.
Symptoms may include:
Snoring with pauses in breathing cycle that may last 1 to 2 minutes
Choking and gasping for breath during sleep that may cause you to awaken
Unusual sleepiness, irritability and decreased energy levels during the day
Interrupted sleep patterns, insomnia, and headache upon awakening
Inability to "get a good night’s sleep"
- How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
- Take the Self Test in the Signs and Symptoms section of our website and note your answers. If you suspect that you do indeed suffer from sleep apnea or a sleep related disorder, see your doctor. After an examination, he or she will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment for your symptoms.
Often, you will be referred to an ENT (ear, nose & throat specialist), to rule out other possible disorders, such as tumor or polyps causing the airway obstruction. Once this is completed, your ENT specialist will order a sleep study in order to properly diagnose your sleep disorder. This test is an important and necessary step in getting your oral appliance covered by your insurance provider.
- I hear you use Oral Appliances to treat OSA. How does the oral appliance work?
- Oral appliances are worn in the mouth to treat snoring and OSA. These devices are similar to orthodontic retainers or sports mouth guards. Oral Appliance Therapy involves the selection, design, fitting and use of a custom designed oral appliance that is worn during sleep. This appliance then attempts to maintain an opened, unobstructed airway in the throat.
 Repositioning the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate and uvula
Stabilizing the lower jaw and tongue
- Will my jaw feel sore?
- Initially it may but with gradual adjustments it will resolve.
- Will I salivate at night?
- In the beginning this may occur but will improve when the patient becomes more accustomed to the appliance.
- Will I be able to make my own adjustments?
- Yes. You will be able to make adjustments to the appliance after the first few office visits.
- Will I have permanent bite changes?
- If you use the exercise bite tabs every morning after using the appliance you will reduce the risk.
- How do I clean the appliance?
- Use a regular toothbrush and cool water with antibacterial soap.
|
