Sweet Dreams Connecticut
Fix My Snoring

Frequently Asked Questions

While snoring is commonly linked to sleep apnea, it doesn’t always indicate the presence of this sleep disorder.

Alternatively, snoring may imply the obstruction of airways due to bulky throat tissue, especially if the individual possesses specific lifestyle traits associated with sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment for both snoring and sleep apnea is identical. A customized mouth appliance can expand the airway diameter, preventing snoring and episodes of apnea. These oral devices are gentle and user-friendly. Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea specialist from Sweet Dreams Connecticut in Middletown and Madison

In our sleep apnea clinic, we explore various treatments for sleep apnea and provide you with the most suitable sleep apnea mouth guard. These devices function by gently advancing the lower jaw to ensure the airway remains unobstructed. It’s essential to note that sleep apnea can affect individuals of any age.

While snoring is commonly linked to sleep apnea, it is not always a definitive symptom. Therefore, undergoing a sleep study is crucial to determine the presence of apnea. Our sleep apnea clinic provides take-home sleep study equipment to identify apnea episodes during sleep. Once used, the device is returned to our office for data analysis. If sleep apnea is detected or if snoring is negatively impacting one’s quality of life, we will provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

The etiology of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) varies among individuals, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. The most prevalent risk factors include:

  1. Age: Being over 40 years old.
  2. Neck size: Having a large neck, defined as over 17 inches in men and 16 inches in women.
  3. Weight: Being overweight, with approximately half of OSA sufferers falling into this category.
  4. Gender: OSA is more prevalent in men than in women.
  5. Anatomical factors: Having a large tongue or a small jaw.
  6. Tonsils and adenoids: Enlarged tonsils and adenoids, particularly notable in children.
  7. Substance use: Consuming alcohol or sedatives, which can relax the muscles in the airway.
  8. Nasal obstruction: Conditions such as a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems leading to nasal blockages.

Despite its effectiveness in treating sleep apnea, CPAP is often criticized for its uncomfortable mask, inconvenient machine, and noise, making compliance challenging for many users.

In contrast, an oral appliance serves as a popular alternative to CPAP. This device is smaller, lighter, and more comfortable, offering comparable treatment efficacy without the discomfort associated with CPAP machines.

A follow-up sleep study will be conducted while using the oral appliance to assess its effectiveness. Interpretation of the gathered data will necessitate a consultation with a sleep medicine expert.

Given the diverse range of insurance policies, our experienced team will collaborate with you to ascertain whether your insurance provider includes coverage for the oral appliance. If coverage is not available for any reason, we will inform you and collaborate on developing a financing plan if needed.

Coverage for dental appliances is typically provided by medical insurance carriers if accessible. It’s important to note that dental insurance often does not cover treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

Patients at our sleep apnea center frequently express that the investment in treating their sleep apnea is worthwhile due to the significantly improved quality of life they experience.

If you don’t have insurance, we understand that accessing healthcare services can be a concern. At our facility, we offer options for individuals without insurance coverage. Sweet Dreams Connecticut is committed to working with you to explore affordable solutions and financing plans to ensure you can still receive the necessary care for sleep apnea treatment. Please feel free to discuss your situation with our staff during your consultation, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs and provide the care you require.

Most patients typically adapt to the oral appliance within 5-10 days. Initially, it may take a few days to get used to sleeping with a device in your mouth. It’s important to note that the appliance is designed to avoid harm to your teeth. If you experience any discomfort after the initial use, we can readily make adjustments for your comfort.

Constructed from highly resilient hard acrylic, these appliances typically have a replacement interval of every 3-5 years, contingent on wear and tear. Individuals who grind their teeth might require more frequent repairs or replacements.

There is a possibility of changes to your bite, as your teeth may shift based on their initial position and the condition of your bone. The use of a morning repositioning device can assist in minimizing such changes.

The most common adverse effect is morning muscle soreness, typically temporary. Some individuals may experience dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned earlier, minor tooth movement may occur in certain patients.

Given that obstructive sleep apnea is unlikely to improve with age, it is probable that the use of your oral appliance will be a lifelong treatment. However, specific health improvements, such as significant weight loss, may contribute to an overall improvement in your condition.

While it is possible to purchase over-the-counter devices for treating sleep apnea, it’s important to note that these are not FDA authorized. Additionally, improper placement may lead to undesirable side effects such as jaw difficulties or excessive tooth movement.