Frequently Asked Questions

If I snore, do I have sleep apnea?

Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that there could potentially be an obstruction in the airway – especially if patients have certain risk factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment for sleep apnea and snoring is the same. By prescribing a custom oral appliance, the diameter of the airway can be widened to prevent the sounds of snoring as well as episodes of apnea. These oral appliances are non-invasive and comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.

Is it possible to have sleep apnea if I don’t snore?

Anyone of any age can have sleep apnea. Even though snoring can accompany sleep apnea, it is not always a symptom of this sleeping disorder. For this reason, it is important to have a sleep study conducted to determine if apnea is occurring.

What causes sleep apnea?

The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender and the condition can be due to many factors. The most common risk factors include:

• Being over age 40
• Having a large neck (over 17 inches in men, 16 inches for women)
• Being overweight – approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight
• Being male – more men than women suffer from OSA
• Having a large tongue or small jaw
• Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (particularly in children)
• Using alcohol or sedatives which relax the muscles in the airway
• Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problem

Who Could Benefit from an Oral Appliance?

Oral appliance therapy is typically recommended for sleep apnea patients who:

• Use a CPAP machine but it’s not working out as expected
• Don’t like their CPAP machine or can’t use it
• Have undergone sleep apnea surgery but still struggle with sleep
• Want to avoid sleep apnea surgery
• Want an affordable and easy way to manage their condition

What is the difference between oral appliance therapy and CPAP?

While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of  the mask, tubes and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. Therefore a high percentage of users have difficulty or will not wear them.  An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably and can provide similar treatment benefits.

How do we evaluate the effectiveness of treatment?

You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm the effectiveness of the device. A consultation with a sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.

How much does a sleep appliance cost?

The cost of getting a custom-made sleep appliance can vary from patient to patient depending on the type of appliance they receive and their medical insurance coverage. Our practice is able to work with many medical insurance providers, including Medicare, to ensure that treatment is affordable for everyone who needs it.

Is CPAP cheaper than an oral appliance?

The cost of CPAP therapy is about 33% more than an oral appliance.  It needs constant maintenance, new masks, hoses, tubing, cleaning supplies, etc.  The initial upfront cost of an oral appliance may be higher, but by the third month, the CPAP cost gets higher due to all the accessories that need to be constantly purchased.

Does insurance cover sleep appliance therapy?

Because insurance plans vary widely, our experienced team will work with you to see if your insurance company will cover the oral appliance. If for any reason it isn’t covered, we will let you know and work with you to develop a financial plan as needed.

If coverage is available for oral appliances, it will come from your medical insurance carrier. Most dental insurance companies do not cover treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Our patients tell us it is well worth the investment of their time and money to treat their sleep apnea because of the improved quality of life they experience.

Can I use dental insurance to pay for a sleep appliance?

No. While oral sleep appliances are provided by dentists, the device will be used to treat a medical problem. It will solely be covered by medical insurance. We will go over all the details of your policy so you fully understand your coverage before committing to treatment.

What if I don’t have insurance?

We offer financing options and will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

How long will it take to adapt to my appliance?  Will it hurt my teeth?

The majority of patients will adapt to the appliance within 5-10 days. It will take a few days to get used to having a device in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance will not hurt your teeth. If your teeth are sore after initial use, we can easily adjust it for your comfort.

How often will the appliance need to be replaced?

Appliances are typically replaced every 3-5 years depending on wear and tear. If you grind your teeth, you may have a more frequent rate of repair or replacement.  They are very durable and you do not have to constantly replace parts every 3-6 months like you would if you have a CPAP (hose, masks, headgears, filters, valves, etc.

Will the appliance change my bite?

A change in your bite is possible.  Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with the use of our custom milled appliances and a morning re-positioning device.

Are there any side effects of the appliance?

The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, minor tooth movement occurs in some patients, especially if they previously have issues with their gum and bone.

How long will I have to use the oral appliance?

Obstructive sleep apnea is unlikely to decrease with age; therefore your oral appliance will be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.

Can I just order a boil and bite device from the internet?

While there are over-the-counter appliances you can order, keep in mind these are not FDA approved for treating sleep apnea. Additionally, when not fitted properly they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.  Custom made oral appliances are more comfortable since they are made just for you.  They have been proven to be significantly more effective in reducing apnea events.

How long will it take to get my sleep appliance?

The process usually takes a few weeks after the diagnostic process has been completed (sleep test + diagnosis).   This includes the first visit with us to get a treatment plan, scanning, design and fabrication of the appliance.   At the second visit, we will fit the appliance. Patients will be monitored to ensure the appliance is working by having them attend a few follow-up visits.

Is it complicated to get treated?

No, in fact it is a very simple process and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

1. Talk to Dr. Rodriguez-Valle about your symptoms
2. Get tested with a simple home sleep test in the comfort of your home
3. Get fitted for your custom oral appliance
4. THRIVE!!!