What are the costs and benefits of treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with Indianapolis, IN area Dentist?

When Indianapolis, IN area patients have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea through their primary physician, the first go-to treatment option is a CPAP machine. A CPAP mask is worn at night and is intended to keep the airways open for easier breathing. However, many patients find these cumbersome and uncomfortable. Instead, dentists have a solution, known as oral appliance therapy, that costs less and has many more benefits for patients to consider.

Understanding obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is a condition that is experienced by millions of Americans. It can be difficult for patients to have diagnosed because the main symptoms are experienced while an individual sleeps. Many cases of OSA start with a sleeping partner that notices excessive snoring or patients gasping for air at night. These are often combined with other symptoms such as:

• Daytime fatigue
• Sore throats
• Chronic headaches
• Poor memory and concentration
• Irritability

Obstructive sleep apnea results in the airways being blocked, sometimes hundreds of times in one night. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea often never reach the restorative levels of sleep they need to feel well-rested and ready for each day. These patients are often tired for no known reasons. When a physician thinks obstructive sleep apnea may be an issue, they may recommend the patient undergo a sleep study, during which the condition can be detected. Once diagnosed, treatment options are discussed. While CPAP treatment is right for some patients, others find compliance difficult.

Alternatives to CPAP machines

As an alternative, many patients consider the costs and benefits of using oral appliance therapy instead. Oral appliance therapy is the use of a special mouth guard patients wear at night when they sleep to keep the jaw aligned, the tongue down, and the airways open. It is comfortable, easy to clean, and simple to travel with, making it a more pleasant option for many of our patients. 

At Washington Street Dentistry, many patients with obstructive sleep apnea will find oral appliance therapy to be a great way to improve their condition without the use of a CPAP machine. We are committed to offering patients alternatives that may improve their compliance with treatment, therefore reducing the common problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea.

Who is a candidate for oral appliance therapy?

Any patient with obstructive sleep apnea may benefit from use of oral appliance therapy. These mouth guards are custom-made for patients who have been struggling with their condition or the use of CPAP machines. Patients who have been diagnosed with OSA are encouraged to book an appointment at Washington Street Dentistry during which they can speak to Dr. Matthew Church about their journey with this specific sleeping disorder. They can discuss what they have tried, how long they have had the condition, and even provide information regarding their referring physician so that the dentist and physician can work together in deciding if oral appliance therapy is an option. Once patients have decided to move forward with this method of treatment, they come in to the dental office for impressions which are used in fabricating the new mouth guard. The, patients are educated on how to use their oral appliance appropriately, so it is effective. Dr. Matthew Church walks patients through the process of using the device to ensure that it provides relief. Many patients who have moved forward with oral appliance therapy find that they are more rested than ever before, resulting in great benefits to their daily lifestyle and overall quality of life.

Find out more about obstructive sleep apnea and effective treatment with our dental team

Whether you want to find out about oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea or are interested in the wide range of services provided at Washington Street Dentistry, we encourage you to book an appointment with our staff. Our professionals are committed to providing quality, comprehensive dental care for the entire family! Call us at (317) 333-6788 to schedule an appointment at 10935 East Washington Street. We welcome patients of all ages into our state-of-the-art practice and enjoy providing the care and services patients deserve!

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