Sleep Apnea Treatment: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) in Fayetteville

How Do I Know If I Have Sleep Apnea In Fayetteville?

Your dentist is the best person to diagnose the presence of this sleep disorder and recommend a treatment protocol.

What Are The Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

The following are the most common symptoms of this sleep disorder:

1. Choking or gasping while you're asleep
2. Daytime sleepiness
3. Frequent loud snoring
4. Morning headaches
5. Waking up with a sore throat or dry mouth
6. Breathing pauses during sleep

Although the presence of any of the above symptoms doesn't confirm the presence of sleep apnea in Fayetteville, they are good indicators. Call us for an appointment to confirm the presence or absence of this sleep disorder.

What Are The Sleep Apnea Causes?

When you're awake, the muscles throughout your body are tense. When you're asleep, your muscles relax. When your throat muscles relax, your airway becomes restricted, and you may not receive enough oxygen. Your body will perceive that as a danger and wake you up so that your breathing resumes its normal pace.

Some physical factors may contribute to the onset of the sleep disorder, such as:

1. Genetic predisposition
2. Overweight or obesity
3. Male birth gender
4. Neck circumference over 16 inches

The presence of one or more of the above can increase the likelihood of developing this sleep disorder, so if you have any of the above and don't sleep well, call our Fayetteville office for an appointment.

What's The Sleep Apnea Treatment?

If you have a mild case, then minor lifestyle adjustments may be sufficient to eliminate it, such as sleeping on your side and losing some weight.

If your sleeping doesn't improve after making the above changes, your dentist may recommend an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Fayetteville or a sleep apnea mouthpiece. These non-invasive treatments will often cure the issue, and you can resume getting a restful night's sleep.

These two dental appliances are similar to a retainer or sports mouth guard. They gently hold your jaw and tongue in their correct position throughout the night, and they're worn only at night. Occasionally, surgery may be needed. However, oral appliance therapy is usually adequate. Be sure to have your dentist order your custom-made mouthpiece, though. Don't buy an over-the-counter model from your local pharmacy.

What's An Oral Appliance For Sleep Apnea?

An oral appliance for sleep disorders is similar to a retainer or a sports mouthguard. It's worn only at night and helps maintain the correct position for your mouth and jaw so that your airway is maximized and your breathing interruptions are minimized. Call us if you have any questions, and we'll be happy to answer them.

What's The Oral Appliance Cost?

Several factors will determine the cost of your oral appliance, including the style you select and your insurance coverage. Let us know if you have additional questions.

Is Oral Appliance Therapy, OAT, Covered By Insurance?

Many insurance providers cover the costs of OAT therapy, but we recommend that you check with your provider about your coverage, benefits, exclusions, and copays. Bring that information with you, and we'll do our best to maximize your insurance benefits. Call our Fayetteville office if you have additional questions.

Why Is OAT Therapy Beneficial?

A sleep apnea mouth guard will gently maintain the proper alignment of your teeth and jaw while you sleep. Sleep is vital to maintain homeostasis in the body. Without adequate sleep, your systems won't work well.

A mouth guard will keep your airway open so that you breathe correctly and get a good night's sleep. It's portable and small, so you can take it when you travel. It's also non-invasive, so you can improve your symptoms without surgical intervention. If you have more questions about the benefits of OAT therapy, call our Fayetteville office, and we'll be happy to answer them and schedule an appointment with one of our skilled dentists.

Need An Appointment?

If you're tired of being tired and want to start sleeping restfully, call our Fayetteville office, and we'll schedule an appointment. We have the reputation of being one of the best in the Fayetteville area, and we're sure you'll be happy to be well-rested once again! We look forward to hearing from you.