Airway Management for Sleep Apnea

Sleep is a critical piece to our overall well-being. Millions of people face a disorder known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea that prevents them from getting crucial rest – and is even life-threatening. Sleep apnea is defined as periods of time in which a person stops breathing for several seconds or more. Many people are unaware that this is even happening throughout the night, however there are multiple symptoms that provide warnings signs that you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea:

• fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep
• snoring
• dry mouth (usually caused by breathing with an open mouth)

While the immediate goals of treating sleep apnea are to get you back to normal breathing while you sleep and to relieve you of the symptoms listed above – long term effects of treatment can help or prevent high blood pressure and lower your risk for more serious problems like stroke, diabetes and heart disease.

You have probably heard of or know someone who uses a breathing device called a CPAP, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure. This machine blows air through a mask that is worn over your mouth and nose, keeping your airway open during sleep.

While it can be effective, many people find the CPAP intolerable at night. An alternative approach to using a CPAP is what we call Oral Appliance Therapy. An oral appliance comfortably positions your jaw and tongue to where your airway is open and you can breathe freely. Depending on your individual situation, you may be a candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy.

Call us today for a free consultation. You may qualify for coverage for an oral appliance under your medical health insurance. We have an expert insurance negotiations team that will work on your behalf to help you utilize your benefits.