Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral Appliance Therapy is often the treatment of choice for OSA when CPAP is not an option. It may also be the BEST choice to treat Primary Snoring, in absence of Apnea

What is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is indicated in patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, and those with severe apnea who are unable to use nasal CPAP.

Oral appliances maintain an open airway by repositioning the jaw forward. The appliances are worn in the mouth as you might wear an orthodontic retainer or sports mouth guard.

Oral appliances are also used in combination with surgery, weight loss, and traditional CPAP therapy.

Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy

Patients find oral appliance therapy to be:

  • Comfortable
  • Quiet
  • Easy to wear and adjust
  • Convenient for travel
  • Easy to care for
  • Inconspicuous
  • Covered by most commercial insurance plans

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right For Me?

At the Center for Sleep Medicine, your sleep physician will review your sleep study findings with you and discuss all of the treatment options available to you. If you choose oral appliance therapy, you will be referred to a dentist with specialized training in dental sleep medicine.

All of our dentists are board-certified in dental sleep medicine by The American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Our dental sleep medicine expert will determine if you are a candidate for an Oral Appliance and select the most appropriate appliance to meet your specific needs.

Can My Own Dentist Make Me An Oral Appliance?

It may be possible, However, our dentists are board certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine to insure they have the education, training and experience necessary to work with your sleep physician to effectively treat your apnea. Most dentists do not have this level education and training. In addition, we have staff dedicated solely to the processing of medical insurance for oral appliances. Our knowledgeable staff will obtain preapproval of your appliance and submit all claims on your behalf.

Can I Use An Over-The-Counter Appliance?

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends a qualified dentist use a custom, titratable appliance over non –custom oral devices. Over the counter or “boil and bite” appliances do not fit the teeth precisely like custom made appliances. They are often ineffective because they are not retentive enough to hold the lower jaw in a protrusive position. We use only FDA approved, custom made appliances that accurately fit your teeth for comfortable, effective use.