Obstructive sleep apnea is a common health concern that we can address with oral appliance therapy in our Chicago dental office. Most patients are unaware that they’re suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) until a loved one or roommate tells them that they snore. Loud snoring often happens when there’s a blockage of excess soft tissues preventing you from maintaining an open airway. Left untreated, this could cause severe health complications. At Premier Dentistry, Dr. Nechama Brand works with patients who are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea in the Chicago loop.
Custom dental sleep appliances are a great option to prevent your loud snoring and reduce your risk of health complications. Treating sleep apnea is part of the common dental concerns we treat at Premier Dentistry.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Chicago, IL
Our office offers oral appliance therapy to treat mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy involves the use of a dental sleep appliance similar to a mouthguard. It’s more compact than a traditional CPAP machine, which doctors often recommend for more extreme cases of sleep apnea.
Patients enjoy oral appliance therapy because it’s easier to use and maintain, and it’s travel-friendly. If you’re unsure if you’ve been suffering from OSA, look out for these common sleep apnea symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Daytime fatigue
- Waking up in the middle of the night
- Gasping for air in your sleep
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
Talk to Dr. Nechama Brand at your next appointment if you notice any of these symptoms. Our team will do everything we can to give you the guidance and resources you need to treat your sleep apnea.
Getting a Sleep Appliance at Premier Dentistry
Dr. Brand is trained in dental sleep medicine to design and fit sleep guards. She recommends oral appliances for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. If you’re diagnosed with OSA and want an alternative to a CPAP, call our office. Dr. Brand will perform a consultation with you to discuss your needs.
If you’re a good candidate, she’ll take impressions of your teeth for your sleep guard. She sends them to a local dental lab where technicians create the appliance. You’ll return to our Chicago loop office after several weeks so she can ensure it fits your mouth perfectly. She’ll make adjustments as needed and send you home with it in a case.
What Risks are Associated with Sleep Apnea?
While many assume that loud snoring is a harmless habit, it actually poses many health risks. This is because snoring indicates that something is preventing you from breathing properly while sleeping. Lack of a proper airway may cause high blood pressure, heart attacks, or even strokes.
While anyone can be affected by sleep apnea, certain factors increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. Common risk factors of sleep apnea include:
- Excess weight and neck circumference
- Being male
- Being over 40 years old
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease
- Smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol
- Nasal congestion
If you have one or more of these risk factors and notice signs of sleep apnea, we recommend that you contact a sleep specialist. After you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, we can work with you to see if you’re a candidate for a sleep appliance.
Patient Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions? We can help. Read answers to common questions patients have about sleep apnea in the Chicago Loop.
How does the oral appliance actually work to stop snoring and sleep apnea?
The appliance is like a custom-fit mouthguard that you wear at night. It gently shifts your jaw or holds your tongue slightly forward. This keeps your airway open while you sleep and prevents the tissues from collapsing and blocking your breath.
Will the dental appliance be uncomfortable to wear all night?
Most patients find it very comfortable after a short adjustment period. Because it’s custom-made from molds of your teeth, it fits you perfectly. Dr. Brand will make sure it’s not too tight and show you how to adjust to wearing it.
How long does it take to get used to the sleep appliance?
Most people get used to wearing a sleep appliance, or sleep guard, within a few nights to a couple of weeks. At first, your mouth might feel a little strange as it adjusts to the device. You may notice minor pressure on your teeth or extra saliva while you sleep. These sensations are normal and usually go away as your mouth becomes used to the appliance.
How do I clean and take care of my oral appliance?
You clean it every morning by brushing it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water. We can also recommend a special cleaning solution. You should also keep it in its protective case when you’re not using it so it doesn’t get damaged.
What if I have a strong gag reflex? Can I still use one?
Yes, usually you can. The oral appliances used for sleep apnea are very small and don’t go far back in the mouth like some other devices, so they rarely trigger a gag reflex. Dr. Brand can show you what it feels like before you decide.
How long will the oral appliance last?
With proper care, a good oral appliance can last for 3 to 5 years. You might need to replace it because of normal wear and tear. Bring it to your regular dental checkups so Dr. Brand can check it for any signs of damage or wear.
Can I use an oral appliance if I have dentures or no teeth?
It depends on your specific situation. You typically need some natural teeth for the appliance to anchor onto. However, different designs are available, so it’s best to talk to Dr. Brand about your options.
Does dental insurance cover the cost of a sleep apnea appliance?
Many medical and dental insurance plans do cover part of the cost because sleep apnea is a medical condition. Our office can help you check your specific insurance benefits to see what is covered.
What if the appliance doesn’t work for me?
Talk to Dr. Brand if the appliance isn’t helping your sleep apnea or is uncomfortable. She can often adjust it for a better fit. If it’s still not working, she can discuss other treatment options with you.
Do I still need to see a medical doctor for sleep apnea?
The dentist is a key part of the team, but they often work with your doctor. You need a sleep study ordered by a doctor to officially diagnose sleep apnea. The dentist then provides the appliance based on that diagnosis. Your doctor and Dr. Brand will work together to make sure your treatment is working.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
At Premier Dentistry, we provide comprehensive and compassionate care to all our patients. If you’re concerned about symptoms of sleep apnea, we’ll build a treatment plan so you can breathe easier.
Schedule an appointment online or call for effective sleep apnea therapy at 708-729-9498 today. Dr. Brand is proud to serve patients from Wicker Park, River North, West Town, and Old Town.