Sleep apnea is a disorder where a person's breathing stops and starts repeatedly throughout the night. This leads to disrupted sleep and daytime fatigue, headaches, and other health issues.

Typical symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Waking up and gasping for air
• Daytime drowsiness
• Frequent need to use the bathroom at night
• Morning headaches

Talk to your doctor if you suspect you may have sleep apnea.

There are multiple treatments for sleep apnea, including:

• CPAP machines - These deliver continuous positive airway pressure to keep the airway open.
• Oral appliances - These devices are fitted by a dentist and hold the jaw forward to open the airway.
• Surgery - This is an option for severe case.

Dentists who are trained in dental sleep medicine can diagnose and treat sleep apnea with oral appliances. These devices are comfortable and effective alternatives to CPAP machines for some patients.

Oral appliance therapy can be more comfortable and easier to wear than CPAP machines. The portability and quietness of oral appliances also make them ideal for travel.

The cost varies depending on your insurance and the device you choose. Cost and financing options will be discussed at your consultation. 

Yes, many insurance plans cover oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. Optimal Sleep OC will help you verify what your insurance covers.

At your consultation, we go over your sleep habits and symptoms and review your medical history and any available sleep studies. A physical exam may also be performed. 

The process usually takes a few weeks. We will take impressions of your teeth to create your custom appliance and ensure a perfect fit. 

Oral appliance therapy is very effective for treating sleep apnea but is not a cure. Studies show that wearing an oral appliance can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health.