In order to be treated for OSA, you must first be diagnosed with the disease by a sleep physician. The diagnosis can be made through the use of a sleep study either at home or through a sleep facility. Once the diagnosis of OSA is made, your physician will work with you to come up with the best course of action or therapy. The most common approach and first line therapy to treat OSA is through the use of CPAP therapy (continuous positive airway pressure). However, people may not always be able to comply with this therapy due to the possible discomfort of wearing the mask, the noise from the machine, or due to personal preference. If you are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy or would prefer an alternative therapy, your physician may collaborate with your dentist and write you a prescription for an oral appliance.

An oral appliance is a custom fit device that is worn while sleeping that works to move the lower jaw forward in order to maintain an unobstructed airway. Dr. Wilson utilizes digital impressions of your mouth to fabricate your customized sleep device. An oral appliance has many advantages including protecting the teeth from damage due to grinding, improved comfort, and the ease of use while traveling.

If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea or cannot tolerate the use of a CPAP, schedule a consultation today and we’ll have you on your way to a better, more restful night’s sleep in no time!