Sleep Apnea Treatment: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) in Chicago

Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OSA is a serious disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. Although these interruptions can last for up to 10 seconds, many individuals don’t even realize they are happening because they start breathing again. They wake up momentarily and go right back to sleep, but the sleep cycle is still interrupted. You don't get the deep, restful sleep you need to feel refreshed in the morning. OSA is most common after age 40, but it can happen at any age.

What Are Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

Common signs and symptoms include:

1. Excessive daytime tiredness after a full night’s sleep
2. Morning headaches or sore throats
3. Trouble concentrating on tasks during the day
4. Chronic, loud snoring
5. Waking up gasping for air
6. Making choking noises while sleeping

If you or your partner notices any of the signs of sleep apnea in Chicago, please contact our dental office for advice.

What Causes OSA?

Sleep apnea causes and things that put you more at risk include:

1. Being overweight
2. Having a large neck width
3. Large tonsils
4. Smoking
5. Taking sedatives before going to sleep
6. Drinking alcohol at night
7. A family history of sleep apnea
8. Being male - about 25% of men who are over age 30 have some form of OSA.

What Are the Treatments for Sleep Apnea in Chicago?

You can treat mild OSA with home remedies, such as losing weight, not using sleeping pills and alcohol before going to bed, and making sure you don't sleep on your back or stomach. Use pillows so you can't roll over while sleeping. Quitting smoking will also help. Smoking increases inflammation in your upper airway and throat.

Most doctors recommend Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines first. A mask fits over your nose and constantly pushes air in to keep your airway open. You may also need one that fits over your mouth as well, if this is how you breathe when you sleep. These machines work well if used for at least four hours a night, but some people don't like using the machine.

If you have a medical condition that narrows your airway, you may need surgery. These conditions can include very large tonsils, a deviated septum or an overbite. These are rare instances.

An oral appliance for sleep apnea is also another option.

What is OAT?

An oral appliance for sleep apnea from our dentist can help keep your airway open when you are sleeping. It looks like a retainer or sports mouth guard and either pushes your lower jaw forward to open your airway or holds your tongue in place. Our dentist in Chicago will design the appliance based on your specific needs.

How Much Will My Sleep Apnea Mouthpiece Cost Me?

A sleep apnea mouth guard is a custom appliance, so the cost will vary. You can talk to your dentist about the estimated cost.

What Type of Insurance Covers Oral Appliances?

Even though sleep medicine dentists create oral appliances, medical insurance typically covers them after a sleep study. Check your policy for specifics. Our staff can help you determine if your appointments, the custom appliance, and follow-ups are included.

How Do I Know If an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea in Chicago Is Right for Me?

If you have OSA and are unhappy with your current treatment, OAT may be right for you. Talk to your doctor and see if OAT can be a solution for you. Our dentist, who understands sleep medicine, may be able to get you the help you need. Please contact us if you want to learn more about OAT and see how we can help you get the sleep you deserve.