Sleep apnea treatment in South Bend in South Bend

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA is the most common form of the sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans. When the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse, the airway is blocked for at least 10 seconds, resulting in OSA. Individuals may make choking noises or wake up shortly, gasping for air multiple times every hour. They may not remember waking up to breathe.

What Sleep Apnea Symptoms Should I Watch For?

If you or a loved one is experiencing the following symptoms, see you physician or a sleep doctor:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loud snoring
• Pounding morning headaches
• Waking up with a sore throat

Ignoring OSA symptoms can lead to serious health problems. Even untreated moderate OSA gives you a three tines greater risk of having a stroke.

What Would Put Me at Risk for OSA?

Certain people are more at risk for developing OSA. Sleep apnea causes include:

• Excess weight
• Being over 40
• Having a large neck size
• Having a family history of OSA
• Excessive alcohol use
• Using sedatives

What is the Best Sleep Apnea Treatment?

You cannot start treatment without a diagnosis from a doctor and an overnight sleep test. The test determines whether you have mild, moderate or severe OSA.

There is no one best treatment for everyone. Individuals with mild OSA can diet and sleep on their side; this may be enough to alleviate the symptoms. Oral appliances can help individuals with mild and moderate OSA. A sleep physician may recommend a CPAP machine as an OSA treatment as well. You would have to get used to wearing a mask at night with a CPAP machine. Surgery is also an option for people with severe OSA who cannot find any other treatment that works. Surgery does not always provide a permanent solution though, the OSA can return. Call our office if you are looking for an oral appliance for sleep apnea in South Bend.

Dental Appliance for Sleep Apnea

What Does a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard Do?

A sleep apnea mouthpiece will prevent your airway from becoming blocked by holding your tongue in place or pushing your mandible (lower jaw) forward. Some mouth guards do both. The custom mouth guard fits over your teeth, just like a retainer. Many patients say that it is easy to get used to after a few days. An OSA mouth guard will need adjustments to ensure that it is comfortable.

What Is the Price for an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea?

The prices for oral appliances vary; our dentist would have to look at your diagnosis and examine your mouth before quoting a price. Treating OSA with an oral appliance is typically less expensive than buying a CPAP machine and a mask. Additionally, you don’t use electricity with an oral appliance, so you will save money on your utility bill.

Will Oral Appliance Therapy Treatment Work for Me?

If you get a mouth guard for sleep apnea in South Bend, it will most likely improve your sleep quality. Our dentist can adjust the appliance as need. As part of OAT, you should schedule another sleep study to determine the extent of your improvement.

Will My Medical Insurance Pay for OSA Treatment?

You should always check your policy before beginning treatment for sleep apnea in South Bend. The majority of medical insurance companies do cover OSA treatment; however, you may need to visit your primary care provider before visiting a sleep specialist.