Question 1

How do I get an oral device for sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

You will need to see a dentist or sleep specialist who is trained in oral appliance therapy. They will evaluate your condition and determine if an oral device is right for you. If so, they will take impressions of your teeth and order a custom device for you.

Question 2

What are oral devices for sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

Oral devices are small, custom-made devices that are worn in the mouth during sleep. They work by holding the jaw in a slightly forward position, which can help to keep the airway open and reduce snoring and apnea events.

Question 3

How effective are oral devices for sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

Oral devices can be quite effective for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, particularly in people who cannot tolerate or do not want to use a CPAP machine. Studies have shown that oral devices can reduce snoring and apnea events by up to 50%.

Question 4

Are oral devices comfortable to wear?

Accepted Answer

Oral devices are designed to be comfortable and easy to wear, although they can take some getting used to. Most people find that they adapt to the device within a few days to a few weeks.

Question 5

Are oral devices covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Many insurance plans do cover oral devices for sleep apnea, although coverage can vary. You should check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of an oral device.

Question 6

Can I use an oral device if I have dentures or missing teeth?

Accepted Answer

Oral devices can be customized to fit around partial dentures or missing teeth, although they may not be as effective as they are in people with a full set of teeth. Your dentist or sleep specialist can help you determine if an oral device is appropriate for your situation.

Question 7

How effective is oral appliance therapy for sleep-related breathing disorders?

Accepted Answer

Oral appliance therapy can be quite effective for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, particularly in people who cannot tolerate or do not want to use a CPAP machine. Studies have shown that oral appliances can reduce snoring and apnea events by up to 50%.

Question 8

How are oral appliances made?

Accepted Answer

Oral appliances are custom-made for each patient, based on impressions of their teeth and a detailed analysis of their airway. The appliance is designed to hold the jaw in a slightly forward position, which can help to keep the airway open during sleep.

Question 9

How do I know if I am a candidate for an oral appliance?

Accepted Answer

Your sleep specialist will evaluate the severity of your condition. If he/she feels that you are a good candidate for OAT, Dr. Sibick will further evaluate your oral condition and discuss your treatment options.

Question 10

How do I know which oral appliance is right for me?

Accepted Answer

There are many types of oral appliances. Dr. Sibick works with several of the most researched adjustable appliances and evaluates each individual’s condition and lifestyle demands before choosing which type is best for him/her.

Question 11

How does the OA prevent snoring and OSA?

Accepted Answer

Oral appliances work in several ways:
By repositioning the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate and uvula.
By stabilizing the lower jaw and tongue.
By increasing the muscle tone of the tongue
Through the above actions, the tissues and tongue are prevented from collapsing in keeping the airway open and unobstructed. Since air flows freely into the lungs, the forced flow of air and vibrations of the tissue (known as snoring) do not occur.

Question 12

How successful is OAT (Oral Appliance Therapy)?

Accepted Answer

For mild obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances have been found to be about 76% effective. For the treatment of snoring control, OA’s are over 90% effective.

Question 13

Are there any long term health consequences to snoring / obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

Accepted Answer

In patients with untreated sleep apnea, the lowering of blood oxygen level can contribute to the development of heart irregularities. In addition, blood pressure can be elevated due to the stress on the heart, and at least 33% of people with sleep apnea have high blood pressure. Because of the cardiovascular effects, sleep apnea is known to be a cause of sudden death during sleep, although this is an uncommon occurrence.

Question 14

What are the side effects associated with Oral Appliance Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Patients using oral appliance therapy may experience the following side effects:
Excessive salivation or dryness.
Morning soreness in the teeth or jaw muscles
Minor/moderate tooth movements .
Most of these side effects improve within a few weeks of regular use and some adjustments of the appliance. Periodic recall maintenance by Dr. Sibick is important to track any potential side effects such as tooth movements and to maintain / adjust the appliance. Patients with arthritis and chronic jaw joint dysfunction may have difficulty tolerating an OA.

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