What If I Can’t Use My CPAP?
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Can’t use CPAP-What Next? You have given your best effort to use CPAP as recommended by your medical team, but despite these efforts you just can’t use it. As a result you may continue to have issues such as excessive daytime tiredness, mood changes and snoring. Although you may be frustrated, don’t give up! You know how important it is to successfully treat your sleep-disordered breathing condition. Fortunately there are treatment alternatives and your health care provider can discuss these with you. One of the most common treatment alternatives for people who cannot use their CPAP is called an oral appliance or mandibular advancement device.
What is an oral appliance and how do they work? Oral appliances are devices that are worn in the mouth while sleeping. They work by helping to keep the airway open, mainly by holding the lower jaw forward and preventing the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat. There are many types of appliances, and after a thorough examination a recommendation will be made for the one best suited for you. Oral
How long does it take for the appliance to work and how long does it take to get used to it? Most patients adapt very nicely to the appliance within the first week and it is not unusual for patients to report feeling more rested and to greatly reduce or eliminate their snoring within a few days or weeks. Dr. Kenworthy will discuss your individual situation and answer any questions you may have before beginning treatment.
How do I know if the treatment is working? Your treatment will be evaluated in consultation with your physician. Following the initial phase of treatment your physician, in most cases, will recommend a follow up sleep study to assure that you are being treated effectively. To assure that your treatment remains effective, a program of on-going care will be recommended. This usually consists of an annual appointment.
Who are oral appliances indicated for? Oral appliances are indicated for use in patients with mild to moderate OSA who prefer them to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or who do not respond to, are not appropriate candidates for, or who fail treatment attempts with CPAP.* *Practice Parameters for Oral Appliances-American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2006
Who can provide this service? It is recommended that this treatment be done by dentists with advanced training in the field of dental sleep medicine. Dr. Kenworthy has received this training and has considerable experience treating patients with sleep-disordered breathing conditions. Dr Kenworthy has achieved Diplomate status from the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and is currently the only Diplomate recognized in the state of Vermont. Earning Diplomate status from the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in dental sleep medicine. click here to learn more
Does my insurance cover this treatment? This treatment is a medical procedure and is covered by most medical insurance contracts as well as Medicaid and Medicare. Our office team is happy to assist you in understanding your insurance coverage.