Are There Any Alternatives to Machines for Sleep Apnea?

Question of The Week – Are There Any Alternatives to Machines for Sleep Apnea?

Yes, there is!  Oral Appliance Therapy is a great alternative to CPAP machines. View a sample of oral appliances that have been approved by the FDA.  http://www.tiredofsnoring.com/cpap-alternative/samples-of-fda-approved-oral-appliances/

Give us a call at (630) 369-5508.  Let’s discuss whether or not Oral Appliance Therapy is an option for you. You WILL thank us!

Your snoring may be causing depression in your bed partner!

  • Does your bed partner complain about your snoring?
  • Is your bed partner tired and irritable during the day?
  • Does your bed partner show signs of depression?

A recent study by Sleep and Breathing, focused on the bed partners of snorers.  The study found that when a snorer was treated, the bed partners depression scores improved.

This was one of the first studies to include a snoring and/or sleep apnea sufferers bed partner.

At Dental Sleep and TMD Center of Illlinois, we truly belive treating your sleep apnea and snoring can help improve your relationships!

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dental Sleep Appliances

WHAT IS O.A.T?  O.A.T. stands for oral appliance therapy, a conservative treatment option that consists of a custom made dental appliance, similar to a sports mouth guard, which is worn at night while you are sleeping.  Oral appliances are commonly used for keeping the airway open by bringing the lower jaw forward and preventing the tongue and other tissue from collapsing back into the throat.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR O.A.T.?  O.A.T. is a good treatment option for patients who snore and/or have mild apnea.  It is also an excellent treatment option for patients with moderate to severe apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy and do not require surgery.  O.A.T. may also be a great option for people searching for a less cumbersome, easily transportable, and much more comfortable than a CPAP machine.

HOW DO I KNOW IF AN ORAL APPLIANCES IS FOR ME?  A minimum of 8 healthy teeth are usually required in each jaw ( 8 on top jaw and 8 in lower jaw.)  CPAP devices may be the “gold standard of care for apnea”, but if you have primary snoring, mild apnea, or are seeking alternative treatment for moderate to severe apnea, an oral appliance may be your best choice of treatment for you.

WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE AND ARE THEY COMFORTABLE?  There are many different oral appliances for the treatment of snoring and apnea.  The choice depends on many factors including each person’s individual anatomy and lifestyle demands. They feel similar to professionally fitted sports guards and night guards. Most people find them far more comfortable and convenient than the CPAP device.

                                       

 Samples Of FDA Approved Oral Appliances

YES, I AM INTERESTED.  WHAT IS MY NEXT STEP?   Call our office to set up a consultation visit with our doctors to discuss if oral appliance therapy is the answer for you and which sleep appliance would be best suited for you. Allow a half hour for your New Patient Consultation, if you had a sleep study you will need to fax it to our office prior to your appointment.

Office:  (630) 369-5508  Fax:  (630) 369-7416

An Oral Appliance Therapy Success Story!

Did you know that there are literally over 20 million adults in the U.S. that suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea and don’t even know it?

That’s why Jason F. feels so fortunate.  And because of this, his entire live has changed for the better.

Only 2 years ago Jason was referred to us because he felt overwhelming fatigued, and was not getting enough sleep.  He knew excess weight was also a factor.  After just a few short months Jason was a new person. Because of his successful oral appliance therapy, his energy and weight loss began to occur.  He started his own weight loss program with the support of other friends that have also lost considerable weight based on the TV reality show Biggest Losers.  He is now more energetic, alert and much happier.

Do you have an oral appliance success story?  We would love post it here and help other sleep apnea sufferers.  Send us your story: civersen@sbcglobal.net You might be able to help someone change their life!

DENTAL SLEEP AND TMD CENTER OF ILLINOIS

1100 SHERMAN AVE., SUITE 103 | NAPERVILLE, IL | PHONE: 630.369.5508