Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. This can disrupt your sleep and lead to daytime fatigue, headaches, and other health problems.
How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, daytime sleepiness, frequent need to use the restroom during the night, and morning headaches. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor or dentist.
What are the different types of sleep apnea treatment?
Several treatments exist for sleep apnea, including CPAP machines, oral appliances, and surgery. CPAP machines deliver continuous positive airway pressure to keep your airway open. Oral appliances, fitted by a dentist, hold your jaw forward to open the airway. Surgery may be an option in severe cases.
Can a dentist treat sleep apnea?
Yes! Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can diagnose and treat sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. This can be a comfortable and effective alternative to CPAP machines for some patients.
What are the benefits of oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea?
Oral appliance therapy is often more comfortable and easier to wear than CPAP machines. It's also portable and quiet, making it ideal for travel.
How much does oral appliance therapy cost?
The cost of oral appliance therapy can vary depending on your insurance and the specific appliance used. We can discuss costs and financing options during your consultation.
Does insurance cover oral appliance therapy?
Many insurance plans cover oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. We can help you verify your coverage and navigate the insurance process.
What happens during a consultation for sleep apnea?
During a consultation, we will discuss your sleep habits, symptoms, and medical history. We may also perform a physical exam and review sleep studies (if available).
How long does it take to get an oral appliance for sleep apnea?
The process typically takes a few weeks. We will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made appliance that fits comfortably and effectively.
Will oral appliance therapy cure my sleep apnea?
Oral appliance therapy is a very effective treatment for sleep apnea, but it is not a cure. However, it can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health.
What is sleep apnea and how does it affect me?
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep, causing disrupted rest and symptoms like daytime fatigue and headaches.
How can I tell if I might have sleep apnea?
Look for symptoms such as loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, excessive daytime sleepiness, frequent night-time restroom visits, and morning headaches. Consult a healthcare professional if concerned.
What types of treatments are available for sleep apnea?
Treatment options include CPAP machines, oral appliances fitted by dentists, and surgery in severe cases. Oral appliances help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw.
Can a dentist treat sleep apnea effectively?
Yes, dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can diagnose and treat sleep apnea using oral appliance therapy as a comfortable alternative to CPAP machines.
What are the benefits of oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea?
Oral appliance therapy is typically more comfortable, quieter, portable, and easier to travel with compared to CPAP machines.
How much does oral appliance therapy cost and does insurance cover it?
Costs vary depending on insurance and appliance type. Many insurance plans like Cigna, Anthem, and Medicare cover this therapy. Consultation includes discussing costs and coverage.
What should I expect during a sleep apnea consultation at Optimal Sleep OC?
The consultation includes reviewing your sleep habits, symptoms, medical history, a physical exam, and possibly existing sleep studies to create an effective treatment plan.
What are the business hours and appointment requirements for Optimal Sleep OC?
Optimal Sleep OC is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday by appointment only. Appointments are required for visits.
Which nearby medical centers can I visit alongside Optimal Sleep OC for related health services?
Nearby medical centers include several Kaiser Permanente locations such as Cheri C Lin M.D., Ani A Atoian M.D., and Kaiser Permanente Barranca Medical Office, offering comprehensive health services.
Are there dental clinics near Optimal Sleep OC where I can seek additional dental care?
Yes, several nearby dental offices like Tom Alexander, DDS, OC Lakes Dental, and Sterling Plaza Dentistry offer dental services that may complement your sleep apnea treatment.
What educational institutions are close to Optimal Sleep OC that families might find useful?
Families can find schools nearby such as Irvine Unified School District, Woodbridge 2 Meadowbrook Irv High School, and Mardan School within the area.