We love answering our patients’ questions and showing them that there is a definitive cause and solution to their sleep troubles. If you would like to know more about anything sleep apnea-related we haven’t touched on below, be sure to reach out to our team at Sleep Better Southwest at our Flagstaff, Sedona, or Prescott Valley sleep dental offices.
It is estimated that 22 million people in the US suffer from sleep apnea, yet as many as 80% of cases of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other ailments.
Snoring is caused by a blockage in the nasal or throat cavity that restricts the passage of air and one’s ability to breathe easily. Poor muscle tone can cause the tongue or throat tissues to relax and narrow the passageway. Occasional snoring is likely not a sign of serious problems. Frequent snoring, on the other hand, may be a symptom of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder defined by short but frequent interruptions of breathing while asleep.
Chronic snoring can cause strain on the heart, leading to high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke. Snoring can also cause low oxygen levels in the blood, which can lead to pulmonary hypertension.
Each appliance is custom fit to significantly reduce the possibility of a patient experiencing side effects. These may include jaw or tooth discomfort, excessive salivation, or dry mouth. If they do occur, they are typically minor, particularly when considering the risks of leaving the disorder untreated. Changes in bite or TMJ symptoms are rare but also possible.
Oral appliances are covered by most medical insurance plans. We work closely with patients and their insurance to obtain pre-authorization and ensure that any out-of-pocket costs are fully disclosed and understood before treatment. If you have a traditional Medicare plan with a separate supplemental policy, treatment is almost always at no cost to you.
No, you do not need a referral to come in. You can make an appointment directly with us. We will communicate with other members of your healthcare team if needed, such as your general dentist, primary physician, and sleep physician.
No, you do not. We will help you get this completed. Most often, testing is done in one night in the comfort of your own home, after which the results are evaluated by a licensed sleep physician.
