Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for creating a custom oral appliance for sleep apnea?
Once it has been determined that you are suffering from sleep apnea, we’ll schedule an appointment to have your custom oral appliance created. Our team will take dental impressions so your appliance will fit comfortably and work as intended. The following appointment will take place when your appliance is done, and we’ll ask you to try it on to ensure that it fits well. Then you are free to take it home and use it nightly. It’s as simple as that!
Can I use nasal strips to keep my airway open?
Nasal strips help to keep the nasal airways open, but sleep apnea is caused by the muscles in the back of the throat becoming too relaxed and obstructing the airflow in the back of the mouth and throat. This is why dental appliances work well for sleep apnea, because they hold the jaw in a comfortable position that still allows breathing to continue uninterrupted even when the throat muscles relax.
Do I have to treat my sleep apnea?
Your specific symptoms may not be motivating you to seek treatment, but we still recommend getting an official diagnosis and exploring your treatment options for sleep apnea. In addition to abnormal fatigue, sleep apnea is also linked to an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes. It’s not pleasant to think about, but in some cases, sleep apnea can actually be fatal. If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, please get in touch with our office and we will be more than happy to assist you.