Oral Device Therapy

If you are looking for an effective CPAP alternative, oral devices provide a proven, safe, and effective option.

To learn more about oral device therapy as a suitable option for your sleep apnea, it is recommended to consult with a sleep professional experienced in sleep medicine. They can assess your condition, provide a proper diagnosis, and guide you through the process of obtaining and using an oral device for effective sleep apnea treatment.

Oral device therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a custom-made oral appliance during sleep to help keep the airway open and prevent episodes of airway obstruction.

One of the key advantages of oral device therapy is its convenience and ease of use. Unlike CPAP machines, which require wearing a mask and being connected to a machine, oral devices are compact, portable, and comfortable to wear. They are custom-fitted for each individual to ensure a proper fit and maximum effectiveness.

Oral devices are also well-tolerated by many individuals and can be a suitable alternative for those who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea.

It’s important to note that oral device therapy should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified sleep professional. They will evaluate your specific sleep apnea condition, conduct a thorough assessment, and recommend the most appropriate oral device for your needs.

Types of Oral Devices

There are several types of oral devices available for the treatment of sleep apnea. These oral devices, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or mandibular repositioning devices (MRDs), work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to help maintain an open airway during sleep. Here are some common types of oral devices:

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These devices resemble mouthguards and are custom-made to fit your mouth. They hold the lower jaw in a forward position, which helps prevent the collapse of the airway and reduces snoring and apnea episodes.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs): TRDs are designed to hold the tongue in a forward position, keeping the airway open. These devices have a small compartment that fits around the tongue, and they often feature suction to hold the tongue in place.
Combination Therapy Devices: Some oral devices combine features of both MADs and TRDs. These devices aim to address multiple factors contributing to sleep apnea, such as tongue position and jaw advancement.

It’s important to note that the specific type of oral device recommended for you will depend on factors such as the severity of your sleep apnea, your jaw structure, and your personal preferences. Consulting with a sleep professional experienced in sleep apnea treatment can help determine the most suitable oral device for your needs.

Common Oral Appliances

Here are a few common oral devices that are utilized in the treatment of sleep apnea:

Both the Herbst and EVO devices are custom-fitted by a professional experienced in sleep apnea treatment. They are typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who prefer an oral device as an alternative to CPAP therapy. Working closely with a qualified healthcare professional will ensure that the most suitable oral device is chosen based on individual needs and treatment goals.

While it is a different type of device than an oral appliance, the Inspire device is also a popular alternative for treating sleep apnea. The Inspire device is a treatment option for sleep apnea known as upper airway stimulation therapy. It is designed for individuals with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who are unable to tolerate or benefit from other treatment options such as CPAP or oral devices. The Inspire device works by delivering mild electrical impulses to the muscles that control the airway during sleep. These impulses help keep the airway open, preventing blockage and allowing for uninterrupted breathing. The device is implanted during a surgical procedure and is controlled by a small handheld remote. It offers an alternative approach for sleep apnea management and has shown promising results in improving sleep quality and reducing apnea events. However, the Inspire device requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified sleep professional to determine if it is the right option for an individual’s specific condition.

What device is right for you depends on several factors. First, everyone’s anatomical needs are different. Next, different types of insurance prefer different devices. Our team of professionals had experience working with insurance companies to figure out a solution that is partially or fully covered by your insurance plan.

Benefits of Oral Device Therapy

Oral device therapy offers several benefits for individuals with sleep apnea:

Effectiveness: Oral devices are approved by the FDA and are proven to be effective at treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Comfort and Convenience: Oral devices are custom-made to fit your mouth, ensuring a comfortable and personalized fit. They are compact and easy to wear, allowing for convenient use at home or while traveling.
Improved Sleep Quality: Oral devices help keep the airway open during sleep by repositioning the jaw or tongue. This prevents airway collapse and reduces the frequency and severity of apnea events, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced daytime sleepiness.
Non-Invasive Treatment: Unlike surgical interventions or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral devices are non-invasive. They do not require any surgery or the use of a mask, making them a more comfortable and user-friendly option for many individuals.
Enhanced Compliance: Many people find it easier to comply with oral device therapy compared to other treatment options. The comfort and ease of use of oral devices can contribute to better treatment adherence, leading to more consistent and effective management of sleep apnea.
Improved Quality of Life: Treating sleep apnea with oral devices can significantly improve overall quality of life. By reducing symptoms such as loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and fatigue, oral devices can enhance mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

It’s important to consult with a sleep professional experienced in sleep apnea treatment to determine if oral device therapy is a suitable option for your specific condition. They can evaluate your individual needs, guide you through the fitting process, and provide ongoing support to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

How to Get Started with an Oral Device

Getting started with an oral device is a straightforward and transparent process.

Give us a call and schedule a consultation
Meet with one of our professionals during an initial consultation
Complete an evaluation and questionnaire
If appropriate, conduct a convenient at-home sleep test
Allow us to put together an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan
Begin treating your sleep apnea
Follow-up for ongoing support

Call Sleep Apnea Solutions Today

To schedule your initial consultation, give us a call today. There is no better time to get started treating your snoring or sleep apnea. Our team is ready to help!

Are oral devices actually effective at treating sleep apnea?

Yes, oral devices have been proven to be effective in the treatment of sleep apnea. Numerous studies have shown that oral devices can effectively reduce snoring, improve sleep quality, and alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea. For mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral devices have been found to be an effective alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. They work by repositioning the jaw or tongue to help keep the airway open during sleep, preventing airway collapse and reducing the frequency of apnea events. The effectiveness of oral devices may vary depending on the individual and the specific characteristics of their sleep apnea. It’s important to undergo a proper evaluation and consultation with a sleep professional experienced in oral device therapy to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your condition. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments and adjustments to the oral device may be necessary to ensure its ongoing effectiveness. Compliance with wearing the device as recommended by your healthcare provider is crucial for optimal treatment outcomes. Contact Sleep Apnea Solutions to schedule a consultation.

How many tests does it take to get an oral device for sleep apnea?

Typically, a single at-home sleep test is sufficient to determine your eligibility for an oral device. These tests, conducted in the comfort of your own home, use portable sleep monitoring devices to assess various sleep parameters and diagnose sleep apnea. The recorded data is then analyzed by healthcare professionals to determine the appropriate treatment approach. Consult with a sleep professional experienced in oral device therapy for personalized guidance throughout the process.

Oral device insurance coverage

Insurance coverage for oral devices used in the treatment of sleep apnea can vary depending on your specific insurance plan and provider. Many insurance plans do offer coverage for oral devices, but it is important to contact your insurance provider directly to understand the specifics of your coverage. They can provide information regarding any required documentation, coverage limitations, and pre-authorization requirements. Sleep Apnea Solutions can also assist you in navigating the insurance process and provide guidance on how to get oral device therapy covered.

Oral Device Therapy