Visit Portland's Premier Dental Sleep Apnea Clinicians
At Oregon Sleep and TMJ, we understand that CPAP is a highly effective treatment for Sleep Apnea. If you are able to comfortably use your machine nightly, continue to do so! However, CPAP may not be the best fit for everyone, the following are reasons some seek an alternative:
- Due to a recent recall on a popular CPAP brand, there’s currently a shortage of these machines.
- Cleaning CPAP machines can be challenging and time-consuming.
- The masks required for CPAPs can be uncomfortable and restrictive, impacting your ease of movement during sleep.
- CPAP users often find it inconvenient to disconnect and reconnect the machine for nighttime bathroom visits.
- While CPAPs are technically portable, they can be unwieldy for travel or short trips.
- CPAPs depend on a power source or batteries, making them less reliable during outages or if batteries fail.
- Many find CPAPs to be unappealing in intimate situations.
Customized Oral Appliance Therapy
Although CPAP remains the "Gold Standard" for managing Sleep Apnea, Oral Appliance Therapy offers a minimally intrusive and highly effective treatment option for OSA, especially suitable for those with mild to moderate cases. These devices work by gently holding the lower jaw in a forward position, thus preventing airway collapse.
We emphasize the comfort and convenience of customized Oral Appliances, their ability to reduce snoring, improve sleep quality, and enhance daytime energy and mood. In our consultation we explore different designs of oral appliances and how these devices can help you based on your individual needs, including mouth shape, teeth condition, and specific Sleep Apnea characteristics
We offer customized Sleep Apnea appliances, treating each patient like family with personalized care. We're committed to your ideal sleep quality and won't give up until you achieve it.
Benefits of Oral Appliances
- Eliminated or reduced need for CPAP
- Reduced or eliminated snoring
- Improved sleep quality
- Fewer wake-ups
- Improved daytime energy, alertness, emotional health
- Reduced risk of major illness such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
- Small, portable and convenient for traveling
- Can be used in combination with CPAP, to improve CPAP compliance
- Covered by most Insurance Plans
There are currently over 150 Oral Appliances on the market. During your examination we will explore which sleep appliance is best for you. We will customize the selection of your device, based on your individual needs and dental status.
How Can I Begin Using An Oral Appliance?
Contact us to set up your consultation and begin working with our dental team. Together, we'll help you breathe better when you sleep, by fitting you with a custom dental device. Wake up to a life where you snore less, sleep better, and live longer. Start your journey to improved well-being today.
Contact Us Today
Oral Appliances FAQs
Q: How can I clean my appliance?
A: Clean your oral appliance daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for dental appliances. Avoid using toothpaste as it can be too abrasive. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry. Cleaning tablets or ultrasonic cleaners can be used occasionally if heavier debris accumulates.
Q: Do I really have to wear that morning appliance?
A: If your dentist recommends a morning appliance (also known as a morning repositioner), it's important to use it. It helps to realign your bite and jaw position after wearing the Sleep Apnea appliance all night.
Q: Should I still see my dentist?
A: Yes, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health, especially when using an oral appliance. Your dentist can monitor your oral health and ensure the appliance is not causing any dental issues.
Q: Do I need a follow-up visit?
A: Our team will refer you back to your Sleep Provider at the appropriate time. In some cases a follow-up sleep test with your dental device will be recommended to confirm it is working properly for you. Regular follow-up visits at Oregon Sleep and TMJ are important, only as needed.
Q: What happens if my appliance breaks?
A: If your appliance breaks, contact your provider immediately. Using a broken appliance can lead to inadequate treatment and may potentially cause oral issues.
Q: How can I tell if my appliance is still working?
A: You can gauge the effectiveness of your appliance by your symptoms. If you notice a return of snoring or daytime fatigue, it might be time for an adjustment or review.
Q: What should I do if my teeth are shifting?
A: If you notice any changes in your bite or tooth alignment, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can assess whether your appliance needs adjustment.
Q: What should I do if food now gets stuck between my teeth?
This could be a sign of shifting teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene and consult with your dentist for a possible appliance adjustment or dental treatment.
Q: Should I get another appliance just in case?
A: Having a backup appliance can be helpful, especially if you travel frequently or are prone to misplacing items. Discuss this with your provider.
Q: When will I need to replace my appliance?
A: Oral appliances typically last for several years, but their lifespan depends on factors like material wear, patient care of the appliance, and how much teeth grinding may occur. Regular checkups will help determine when a replacement is necessary.
Q: What happens if I get a new filling, cap, or lose a tooth?
A: Any significant dental work can affect the fit of your appliance. Notify your provider of any dental changes so they can adjust or remake your appliance as needed.
Q: Will my insurance cover all the costs?
A: It is true that most Insurance Plans provide coverage for Oral Appliances, but insurance coverage varies widely. Although it is not always possible to predict what final coverage may be, our team will help gain the most from your insurance benefits
