Tuesday, December 27, 2016

CPAP Alternative-Oral Appliance Therapy

CPAP is the gold standard for treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. If one can tolerate the CPAP mask it is extremely effective. However, studies have shown that up to 40% of patients will quit using CPAP within the first six months. The reasons are many and include...

  • Discomfort of the nose and upper lip
  • Claustrophobia
  • Unconsciously removing the CPAP while sleeping
  • Nasal Dryness
  • CPAP machine noise interrupts sleep
  • Leaky mask
  • Discomfort caused by straps and headgear
For those patients that can not tolerate CPAP, Oral Appliance Therapy is a safe and effective alternative. Oral appliances are recognized by the Academy of Sleep Medicine. They work by pulling the lower jaw forward which helps keep the throat from collapsing allowing air to reach the lungs. In addition, Oral Appliance Therapy is usually covered by your medical insurance. 
We have been providing Oral Appliance Therapy at the Baltimore Center for Laser Dentistry for over a decade. We also work with a billing company to ensure maximum medical insurance coverage available under your plan. 
If you would like to consult with us regarding Oral Appliance therapy for Sleep Apnea give us a call today at 410-789-4999. Also visit our website www.laserdentistbaltimore.com.