What's the difference between Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
What is the Oral Airway Dilator?
Does insurance cover the cost of an OAD?
How long does it take to get an OAD?
Why would I need to consult a medical doctor?
What do I receive for my money?
What does it feel like in your mouth?
Does it hurt to wear the Oral Airway Dilator?
Is an Oral Airway Dilator more effective than CPAP?
What if I don't consult a medical doctor for a diagnosis?
I will do anything to get my spouse to stop snoring.
Why can't I just wear one of those nasal strips to cure my snoring?
How do I keep my appliance clean and safe?
Are there any side effects with the Oral Airway Dilator?
How do I know if I am a candidate for an Oral Airway Dilator?

What's the difference between Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Snoring occurs when the soft tissues in your throat and upper airway constrict and vibrate. The sound created is termed snoring. When the soft tissues completely close or obstruct the airway and prevent air from reaching your lungs, it is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Back To Top

What is an 'Oral Airway Dilator'? (OAD)
The Oral Airway Dilators are FDA approved, "custom-made" intra-0ral appliances used to treat Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Back To Top

Does Insurance cover the cost of an OAD?
It depends on the diagnosis. We have yet to have either dental or medical insurance cover any snoring appliances. OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) is a medical condition, requires an overnight sleep study and a physician's diagnosis. With the OSA diagnosis, we most often see a reimbursement of 70% to 80%
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How long does it take to get an OAD?
Determining whether you are an Oral Airway Dilator candidate is the first step. If Snoring is your only concern, the first step is to make an appointment. If you are concerned about Apnea, we can refer you for a medical evaluation by a sleep disorder specialist. Our self-screening questionnaire and a phone conversation with us to learn your desires and concerns can be very helpful in deciding the best place for you to begin with treatment. A short- term appliance (B&B) requires 2-3 appointments. Custom, long-term appliances require 3-5 appointments.
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Why would I need to consult a medical doctor?
If you are a 'qualified' appliance candidate, have no OSA symptoms and are concerned primarily with snoring, you don't need to see a MD. Snoring by itself is not a medical condition. (See Questionnaire) Back To Top

What do I receive for my money?
Not all people are candidates for oral appliances. The First step is to make this determination with a clinical exam. The information gathered enables you to make informed choices. The evaluation begins first, with a health history to identify any prior events, injuries, or conditions that might influence the outcome. Second, is a visual clinical evaluation of all the structures directly and indirectly associated with oral appliance management including your head, neck, and mouth, teeth and supporting structures. Third, an 'Acoustic Analysis' of your upper airway will measure the size of your entire upper airway and locate obstructions, constrictions and can preview jaw positioning for an Oral Airway Dilator.

Each of us has unique and subtle differences that preclude 100% predictability, but with the above information I can determine your chance for success far more accurately at the same appointment. If you qualify for an OAD, the appliance best suited for you will be explained along with treatment time and costs. If you are not a candidate for an OAD, the information obtained helps us better direct you to where your needs can be met. The procedures described above are all within $300. See above for appliance cost and criteria.
Benefits:

1. No snoring means greater social acceptance!
2. Managing your OSA will greatly reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke and
   High blood pressure Back To Top

What does it feel like in your mouth?
Although sensations will vary, most patients adapt very quickly to the Oral Airway Dilator (OAD). Since the OAD is so effective, you will only notice its presence when you are first going to sleep. It's custom fit and lightweight enables its insertion and removal quickly and easily. Back To Top

Does it hurt to wear the Oral Airway Dilator?
Wearing an OA is pain-free and quite comfortable. Since it is a non-invasive procedure, unlike surgery or common dental procedures, the potential for any pain is minimal. Back To Top

Is an Oral Airway Dilator more effective than CPAP?
A 'CPAP' (Continuous Positive Air Pressure) is an air pump that delivers timed and controlled air pressure through a hose and through your nose via a mask or similar facial device. It is 100% effective for the 60-70% of people who can tolerate it. 30-40% of patients cannot tolerate the CPAP for many valid reasons. In many cases the OAD has been as effective as CPAP without the discomfort or inconvenience. Back To Top

What if I don't consult a medical doctor for a diagnosis?
I feel obligated to inform and make recommendations according to your situation so you know the potential risks and benefits. The final decision is yours. Medical insurance only pays for diagnosed medical conditions. Back To Top

I will do anything to get my spouse to stop snoring. What can I do if he/she won't listen?
Encourage your spouse to read the enclosed material and urge him/her to call us for an appointment for your sake if not your spouse! Back To Top

Why can't I just wear one of those nasal strips to cure my snoring?
Nasal strips on the market have been shown to improve flow of air just through the nose. Since the only effective way to treat snoring and sleep apnea is to increase the size of air passage beyond the nose, CPAP, surgery and Oral Appliance (OAD) therapy are the more clinically effective methods. It's my strong personal opinion that all reversible methods are explored before irreversible procedures are considered! Back To Top

How do I keep my appliance clean and safe?
After brushing your teeth, brush your OAD thoroughly and put it in its protective container out of reach of children and pets. Once a week, soak it in denture cleanser during the day to remove micro bacteria that cause stain and odor.
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Are there any side effects with the Oral Airway Dilator?
There have been very few side effects reported. It is common to experience a temporary increase in salivation, and perhaps some tenderness in the jaw joint area during the adjustment period. Back To Top

How do I know if I am a candidate for an Oral Airway Dilator?
If you snore, wake up often during the night, or experience frequent sleepiness during the day, you may be greatly helped with an Oral Airway Dilator. Simply call us to schedule a clinical exam! Back To Top