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Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that bulky throat tissue could potentially obstruct airways – especially if patients have certain lifestyle factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment we offer for sleep apnea and snoring is the same. By prescribing a custom oral appliance, the diameter of the airway can be widened to prevent the sounds of snoring as well as episodes of apnea. These oral appliances are soft and comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.
Anyone of any age can have sleep apnea. Even though snoring can accompany sleep apnea, it is not always a symptom of this sleep disorder. For this reason, it is important to have a sleep study conducted to determine if apnea is occurring. Our practice provides take-home sleep study machinery to detect episodes of apnea during sleep. After usage, the device will be returned to our practice and we will analyze the data collected. If we find that sleep apnea is present or determine if snoring is obstructing one’s quality of life, we will provide treatment recommendations.
The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender. The most common risk factors include:
While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of the mask and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. Therefore a high percentage of users have difficulty or will not wear them.
An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably and can provide similar treatment benefits.
You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm the effectiveness of the device. A consultation with the sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.
A change in your bite is possible. Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with the use of a morning re-positioning device.
The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, minor tooth movement occurs in some patients.
Obstructive sleep apnea is unlikely to decrease with age; therefore your oral appliance will probably be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.
While there are over-the-counter appliances you can order, keep in mind these are not FDA approved for treating sleep apnea. Additionally, when not fitted properly they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.
Yes. Dentists who are trained in dental sleep medicine can help many patients with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) through custom oral appliance therapy. These appliances gently reposition the lower jaw to help keep the airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and improving airflow. Dr. Anshu Bansal will evaluate your symptoms, review your sleep study (if available), and determine whether oral appliance therapy is right for you.
No. Not everyone who snores has obstructive sleep apnea, but loud, frequent, or disruptive snoring is one of the most common symptoms of OSA. If your snoring is accompanied by pauses in breathing, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or difficulty concentrating, you should be evaluated for obstructive sleep apnea.
A sleep study may be recommended if you experience chronic snoring, daytime sleepiness, witnessed pauses in breathing, waking up gasping or choking, morning headaches, or poor-quality sleep. A sleep study is the only way to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea and helps determine the most appropriate treatment. If needed, we can help coordinate a convenient at-home sleep test.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep, causing the airway to become partially or completely blocked. These repeated interruptions in breathing can reduce oxygen levels and disrupt restful sleep. Untreated OSA has been associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.
An oral appliance is a custom-made device that is worn while you sleep, similar to a mouthguard. It gently repositions the lower jaw to help keep the airway open, making breathing easier and reducing snoring and airway obstruction. Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for many patients with snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Yes. Oral appliances are custom fabricated to fit your teeth and are designed for comfort. Most patients adjust quickly and find them much easier to travel with and wear than traditional CPAP equipment.
For many patients with primary snoring or mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy can be an effective alternative to CPAP. Some patients with severe sleep apnea may still require CPAP or may benefit from combination therapy. Dr. Bansal will work with your physician and sleep study results to recommend the treatment that best meets your needs.
Many medical insurance plans provide benefits for oral appliance therapy when it is prescribed to treat diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea. Coverage varies by insurance plan. Our team will help verify your benefits and explain your treatment options before you begin care.
Oral appliance therapy has been shown to be highly effective for many patients with primary snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Success depends on the severity of your condition, your airway anatomy, and consistent use of the appliance. Regular follow-up visits help ensure your treatment is comfortable and effective.
Your consultation includes a review of your medical history, sleep concerns, current symptoms, and airway evaluation. If you have already completed a sleep study, Dr. Bansal will review your results. If a sleep study has not been performed and is appropriate, we can help arrange an at-home sleep test before recommending treatment.
Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can affect both your sleep quality and your overall health. Over time, it may increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, irregular heart rhythms, type 2 diabetes, memory and concentration problems, excessive daytime sleepiness, and motor vehicle or workplace accidents due to fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve sleep, energy levels, and long-term health.
At Sleep Airway Solutions, we focus exclusively on helping patients breathe better and sleep better. Dr. Anshu Bansal provides personalized care using comfortable, custom oral appliance therapy for patients with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Our goal is to help you achieve restful sleep with treatment that fits your lifestyle.