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The Truth About Dental Sleep Medicine: 5 Myths & Facts You Should Know


If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), chances are you’ve heard of CPAP therapy. But there’s another effective and comfortable option that often flies under the radar: oral appliance therapy. As a dental sleep medicine provider in Syracuse, I’ve noticed there’s still a lot of confusion—and even some surprising myths—about this treatment option. Let’s clear a few things up.



  1. Myth: Oral appliances are only for mild sleep apnea.



Truth: While oral appliances are often first-line for mild to moderate cases, many patients with severe OSA can also benefit—especially if they’re CPAP-intolerant. With the right appliance, fitting, and follow-up (including sleep studies), even severe cases can see major improvements.



  1. Myth: All dentists can treat sleep apnea.



Truth: Not all dentists are trained in dental sleep medicine. It’s a specialized field that requires extensive knowledge of airway anatomy, sleep physiology, and proper appliance therapy. Working with a provider who is credentialed and experienced ensures safer, more effective treatment.



  1. Myth: Oral appliances are just fancy nightguards.



Truth: They may look like a nightguard, but oral appliances for sleep apnea are precision medical devices. They are FDA-approved, adjustable, and designed to move the jaw forward just enough to keep the airway open throughout the night.



  1. Myth: If I don’t snore, I don’t have sleep apnea.



Truth: Snoring is a red flag, but not all patients with sleep apnea snore. Some experience silent apneas, where breathing stops but without the telltale sound. Symptoms like daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and memory issues can be warning signs, even without snoring.



  1. Little-Known Fact: Medicare and many insurances cover oral appliances.



Many people are surprised to learn that oral appliance therapy is a covered benefit under Medicare and most major medical insurance plans, especially when CPAP has failed or been refused. As a Medicare-credentialed provider, we help patients navigate the approval and reimbursement process from start to finish.




In Conclusion

Dental sleep medicine is growing fast, but misinformation still lingers. If you’re struggling with CPAP or simply want to explore a quieter, more comfortable option for treating your sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy might be the solution you’ve been looking for

 
 
 

Comments

  • What should I bring or upload for my first appointment?
    1) A copy of your sleep study (if available.) 2) Clear images of the front and back of your MEDICAL insurance card 3) By completing the registration form, you give implied consent for me to run a medical insurance benefits check on your behalf.
  • How long does it take to get a custom oral appliance?
    Once we take impressions of your teeth, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to fabricate your custom oral appliance. After it’s ready, we’ll schedule a fitting appointment to ensure it’s comfortable and effective.
  • What are the side effects of treatment with a mandibular advancement device (MAD)?
    While mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are highly effective for treating sleep apnea and snoring, some patients may experience mild side effects, especially during the initial adjustment period. These side effects are typically temporary and can often be managed with minor adjustments to the device. Common side effects include: 1. Jaw Discomfort or Soreness: - As your jaw adjusts to the new position, you may experience mild soreness or stiffness, particularly in the morning. This usually subsides within a few days to weeks. 2. Tooth Discomfort: - Some patients report temporary tooth sensitivity or pressure as the device gently shifts the jaw. This typically resolves as your mouth adapts. 3. Dry Mouth or Excessive Salivation: - Wearing a MAD can sometimes cause dry mouth or, conversely, increased saliva production. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier in your bedroom can help. 4. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Discomfort: - In rare cases, patients with pre-existing TMJ issues may experience mild discomfort. If this occurs, we can adjust the device or recommend additional therapies to alleviate the issue. 5. Minor Bite Changes: - Some patients notice slight, temporary changes in their bite after prolonged use. These changes are usually reversible and can be managed with regular follow-ups and adjustments. 6. Gum or Soft Tissue Irritation: - If the device doesn’t fit perfectly, it may cause minor irritation to your gums or soft tissues. We can easily adjust the fit to resolve this. What can I do to minimize side effects? - Follow our care instructions for your MAD, including proper cleaning and maintenance. - Attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. - Communicate any discomfort or concerns to us immediately—we’re here to help! Most patients find that any initial side effects are outweighed by the significant improvements in their sleep quality and overall health. If you have concerns about side effects, we’re happy to discuss them during your consultation.
  • What insurances do you work with?
    At CNY Dental Sleep, we believe in honest, patient-centered care—which means no financial surprises. While we work with most major insurance plans, our priority is ensuring you receive the treatment you need without unnecessary stress. If we’re in-network with your insurance, we’ll handle all claims and paperwork for you. If we’re out-of-network, don’t worry—we’ll still file your claims and work with your insurer to maximize your benefits (Commercial Medical Insurance Plans Only.) Our goal is to keep care accessible and predictable. We’d rather find a way to make it work than turn anyone away. Have a plan we don’t typically work with? Just ask! We’ll review your coverage together and find a solution that fits your needs.
  • How often should I have my oral appliance checked or replaced?
    We recommend having your oral appliance checked at least once a year to ensure it’s functioning properly. Most devices last 3-5 years with proper care, but wear and tear or changes in your dental structure may require earlier replacement.
  • What should I expect during my first appointment?
    During your first visit, we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and any previous sleep study results. We may also perform an oral examination to assess your jaw structure and discuss whether an oral appliance is right for you. If so, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fitted device.
  • Where are you located?
    We are conveniently located in the Madison Irving Medical Building at: 475 Irving Ave, Suite 110 Syracuse, NY 13210 We share the same office as CNY Dental Arts, making it easy for patients to access both dental and dental sleep medicine services in one place. If you have any trouble finding us, feel free to give us a call, and we’ll be happy to guide you!
  • What should I do if my oral appliance feels uncomfortable or stops working effectively?
    If your oral appliance feels uncomfortable or isn’t working as well as it should, contact us right away. We can make adjustments to improve fit and effectiveness. Regular follow-ups are also important to ensure your device continues to work properly.
  • When will CNY Dental Sleep accept Medicare part B insurance?
    WE TAKE MEDICARE!
  • How do I care for my oral appliance?
    To keep your oral appliance clean and in good condition, rinse it with water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the device. Store it in its protective case when not in use.
  • Is an oral appliance as effective as a CPAP machine?
    For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances are often just as effective as CPAP therapy. They are also a preferred option for those who find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use. However, the best treatment depends on your specific condition, and we’ll work with you to determine the most effective solution.
  • Do I need a sleep study to qualify for treatment?
    Yes. A sleep study is required to diagnose sleep apnea and determine if oral appliance therapy is right for you. If you already have a copy of your sleep study, please upload it during the registration process. If not, I can guide you on how to obtain one.
  • What are your office hours?
    Our office hours are as follows: Monday-Saturday By appointment Only We strive to accommodate our patients’ schedules and offer flexible appointment times to meet your needs.
  • How does an oral appliance for sleep apnea work?
    An oral appliance is a custom-fitted device worn during sleep that gently repositions your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open. This prevents the collapse of soft tissues that cause snoring and sleep apnea. It’s a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines for many patients.
  • What is a mandibular advancement device (MAD) and how can it help manage sleep apnea?
    A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a custom oral appliance crafted by dentists to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. It works by advancing the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps keep the airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and improving breathing. MADs are comfortable, easy to wear, and can be an effective alternative to CPAP machines for some patients.
  • What are the signs that I might have sleep apnea?
    Common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, frequent awakenings, morning headaches, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you or your partner notice these symptoms, it’s important to seek evaluation, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and high blood pressure.
  • What is dental sleep medicine, and how can it help me?
    Dental sleep medicine focuses on treating sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring, using oral appliance therapy. These custom-fitted devices help keep your airway open during sleep, improving your breathing and overall sleep quality. If you struggle with snoring, daytime fatigue, or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, dental sleep medicine could be a life-changing solution
  • Do I need a referral to visit CNY Dental Sleep?
    No, you do not need a referral to schedule an appointment with us. However, if you’ve already been diagnosed with sleep apnea or have had a sleep study, bringing your results can help us tailor your treatment more effectively.
  • What conditions or factors might make a mandibular advancement device unsuitable for me?
    While mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are an effective treatment for many patients with sleep apnea or snoring, they may not be suitable for everyone. Contraindications include: 1. Severe Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: If you have significant TMJ pain or dysfunction, a MAD could exacerbate your symptoms. 2. Limited Jaw Mobility: Patients with restricted jaw movement or conditions like lockjaw may not be able to comfortably use a MAD. 3. Poor Dental Health: Significant tooth loss, gum disease, or untreated cavities may make it difficult to properly fit or retain a MAD. 4. Severe Sleep Apnea: In cases of severe obstructive sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be more effective than a MAD. 5. Central Sleep Apnea: MADs are designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea, not central sleep apnea, which is caused by neurological issues rather than airway blockage. 6. Allergies to Device Materials: If you have allergies to the materials used in MADs (e.g., acrylic or silicone), alternative treatments may be necessary. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your medical history, dental health, and sleep study results to determine if a MAD is the right solution for you. If not, we’ll work with you to explore other treatment options.
  • What are recommended Patient Jaw Exercises?

315-217-1315

Fax 877-486-1488

drchobor@cnydentalsleep.com

475 Irving Ave

110 (in CNY Dental Arts Office)

Syracuse, NY 13210

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