What is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is a commonly used treatment for both snoring and sleep apnea. The therapy involves a small, custom-fit oral appliance that sits in the mouth similar to a sports mouthguard or retainer, that is worn during sleep. This appliance helps to support the jaw and keep it in a forward position, maintaining an open and accessible upper airway through the night. These snoring solutions can improve and restore a patient’s sleep, health, and alertness simply by correcting the jaws alignment during the night. Research has shown oral appliance therapy to be an effective and preferred option for sleep apnea treatment.

Advantages of Oral Appliance Sleep Apnea Treatment:

Oral appliance therapy offers an effective approach to a non-invasive treatment for snoring and sleep apnea. Because it simple and easy to include in your general oral hygiene routine, many of our dental clinic patients prefer oral appliance therapy. Its many benefits include:

• Comfortable
• Discreet
• Portable
• Convenient
• Small
• Easy to Maintain

Your Oral Appliance and Your Dentist

It is not uncommon for dentists to work closely with physicians when treating snoring and sleep apnea. However, when you meet with Dr. Kruckman she will discuss all aspects of the therapy whether there was communication with your physician or not. Dr. Kruckman will speak with you about the benefits of choosing the oral appliance therapy, as well as the risks and costs, and cover any questions you might have. Once this information has been discussed, Dr. Kruckman will conduct a complete evaluation in which she will examine your teeth, jaw, tongue, and airway using x-ray technology and specialized exam techniques.

Making and Fitting Your Oral Appliance

After your oral evaluation with Dr. Kruckman, your oral appliance will be custom made using a digital or physical impression model of your teeth (depending on the state of your oral health). Once designed in our dental clinic, the model will be sent to a dental lab where custom snoring solutions are made and refined.

Once the appliance has been completed, it will be sent back to our office and Dr. Kruckman will make any additional adjustments necessary to ensure the appliance fits comfortably in your mouth. These last adjustments will maximize both the comfort and effectiveness of your appliance, which means you should be very vocal about any changes that need to be made prior to leaving our Waconia dental clinic. At this point you will also learn how to properly care for and maintain your new appliance.

Living with your Sleep Apnea Treatment

When you use oral appliance for the first time, the difference can make you feel like a new person. With the help of your appliance, you are sure to find that your symptoms, quality of life, and health improve dramatically. However, this can only remain true if you commit yourself to the continual and regular use of your appliance in the proper way. Oral appliance therapy may not permanently correct the problem but it will allow you to sleep better, have more energy, and feel more alert throughout the day.

Follow-up Appointments

Ensuring the lasting success of your oral appliance therapy relies deeply on regular follow-up appointments. During these appointments Dr. Kruckman will check the fit of your oral appliance and look for inconsistencies or changes. With simple annual assessments, your appliance and its results can last for years and years to come.

With consistency, maintenance, and care, treating your snoring or sleep apnea can promote a healthier heart, body, and mind! Kruckman Family Dentistry is prepared to recommend the perfect FDA-approved oral appliance for you. Contact our office to get started today!