Sleep Apnea Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cure for obstructive sleep apnea?
No, there is no cure for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), although various treatments can alleviate the symptoms and break the cycle of sleeping/breathing cessation/waking that occurs with sleep apnea. Treatment options include CPAP machines, oral appliances, physical therapy, or implantable devices for some. The ideal treatment depends on patient needs and situations.
Is there an effective non-CPAP treatment for sleep apnea?
Yes, there are effective alternatives to the CPAP machine. While CPAP is the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment and can be effective for some individuals, others find it uncomfortable, ineffective, or claustrophobic. We offer customized oral appliances to reposition your jaw, keeping your airway open for unobstructed breathing during the night.
Is Dr. Genetti qualified to treat my sleep apnea?
Yes. Dr. Genetti is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, an honor reserved for those highly trained and most qualified to treat sleep apnea with alternative therapies. Dr. Genetti works closely with patients and their sleep disorder specialists to ensure treatment addresses the patient’s symptoms safely and effectively.
Are there side effects to using a sleep apnea appliance?
The most common side effects are dry mouth, an aching jaw or, in some cases, excess saliva production. These usually subside after you have gotten used to using the appliance regularly for a few weeks.
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Will my insurance cover an oral appliance for sleep apnea?
Medical insurance often covers all or part of the costs of a sleep apnea appliance because sleep apnea is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition. We recommend checking with your insurance carrier to determine your out-of-network coverage, co-pay, and deductible limits. If you need assistance, our office staff can help guide you through this process.
How long does it take to get a sleep apnea appliance?
Your first appointment with us is focused on reviewing your symptoms, sleep study results, and medical and sleep apnea history. During this visit, we’ll also show you an example of the appliance and answer all your questions—both clinical and financial.
If you decide to move forward with treatment, we can often complete your intraoral digital scan and records during that same appointment to begin fabrication of your custom appliance. Your delivery appointment will typically be scheduled 3–4 weeks later, when you’ll be fitted with your appliance and shown how to properly use and care for it.
You’ll then have follow-up visits about every three weeks so we can evaluate your progress, adjust your appliance as needed, and monitor your improvement in symptoms. Once your symptoms have improved or resolved, we’ll arrange final testing to ensure your appliance is effectively treating your sleep apnea.
How long does it take to get used to a sleep apnea appliance?
Because it is custom fit to your mouth, many of our patients comment on how comfortable and easy it is to get used to the appliance. Most people take two to four weeks to get used to wearing a nighttime oral appliance. It can feel strange at first to sleep with something in your mouth, but most people adjust fairly quickly. If you have trouble getting used to it, try using it for a few hours and gradually increase the time until you can wear it all night.
How long do I have to use a sleep apnea appliance to experience results?
Most patients experience relief from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) from the first night using their appliance. As long as they wear the appliance at night, they continue to get a better night’s sleep without the continual waking/sleeping cycle common to OSA.
How do I care for my oral appliance?
It is important to keep your sleep apnea appliance clean. Brushing it every morning and night with a soft bristle toothbrush is crucial, using a separate toothbrush for this purpose. Do not use toothpaste, as it can scratch the appliance. Instead, use warm (not hot) water and a gentle dish soap such as Dawn. Let the mouthpiece air dry, then store it in its container during the day.
How often will I have to replace my oral appliance for sleep apnea?
A sleep apnea oral appliance can last two to seven years before needing replacement. They undergo significant wear and tear while you are sleeping, especially if you grind your teeth at night. Delaying replacement is not advisable, as a worn appliance will not effectively keep your airway open.
Can a patient with a full denture get a sleep apnea appliance?
It depends. While some types of oral appliances require at least six natural teeth to hold them in place, some sleep apnea appliances are held in place with natural suction. We can also modify an oral appliance to fit your mouth without teeth. Another alternative is a simple nighttime denture for the top teeth that works with your oral appliance to maintain an open airway. Dr. Genetti will review all options with you and devise the best treatment plan for you.
What is my long term follow up with a sleep appliance?
As long as you remain comfortable and there are no major health or medical changes, we typically see our patients once a year for ongoing care. During this visit, we will professionally clean your appliance, review your oral health and sleep symptoms, and make any needed adjustments to ensure your appliance continues to provide the best results and remains in great condition.