For those with some of the more common sleeping issues, such as excessive snoring or sleep apnea, you’ll probably be surprised to learn that treatments for these conditions can be found at your dentist’s office. In fact, there is an entire field—sleep disorder dentistry—dedicated to these problems.
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of this condition, and is when there is an obstruction in the upper airway.
ORAL APPLIANCE THERAPY
Specific therapy for sleep apnea is determined based on each patient’s diagnosis. Treatment for sleep apnea varies from very simple lifestyle changes to surgery. An oral appliance may be recommended as an effective treatment option for patients who suffer from snoring or with mild to moderate OSA.
ORAL APPLIANCE COVERAGE BY MEDICAL INSURANCE
Most oral appliances for OSA are covered by your MEDICAL insurance. Since insurance plans vary widely we work with all our patients to help them obtain reimbursement from their insurance carrier to the maximum allowed by their plan.
In our practice we will always make treatment recommendations based on what we believe is in your best interest to improve your sleep and your health. We will help you understand the cost of your treatment so you can make an informed decision about oral appliance therapy. We will also explain how your insurance benefits can help you with the cost of treatment. To that end, we can send a pre-treatment determination of benefits to your insurance company prior to your pursuing treatment.
We hope you will see us as a resource in helping you make healthy choices. We intend to be in a relationship with you for a long time so your long-term health is important to us.