Sleep Apnea

Everett and Mill Creek Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Rest Easy, Sleep Better

At Align Choice Orthodontics, Dr. Naghibi specializes in managing and treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) to help you get a restful night’s sleep. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, we offer effective treatments tailored to your needs in Everett and Mill Creek, WA.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.

This condition can lead to daytime fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems if left untreated.

Gasping for Air During Sleep

People with sleep apnea often wake up gasping for air due to interrupted breathing. This can be frightening and disrupt your sleep cycle.

Loud Snoring

Loud snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. It occurs when the airway is partially blocked, causing vibrations in the throat.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

Sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime sleepiness due to frequent awakenings during the night. This can affect your focus and overall quality of life.

Morning Headaches

Morning headaches are another symptom of sleep apnea. They result from a lack of oxygen during sleep, leading to tension and discomfort.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

Several factors can contribute to the development of sleep apnea. Understanding these causes can help in managing and treating the condition effectively.

Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for sleep apnea. Excess weight can lead to fatty deposits around the upper airway, which obstruct breathing.

Nasal Congestion

Chronic nasal congestion can contribute to sleep apnea by making it difficult to breathe through your nose, especially at night.

Lifestyle Habits

Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can worsen sleep apnea. These habits can relax the muscles around your airway, leading to obstructions.

Family History

A family history of sleep apnea increases your risk. Genetic factors can influence the structure of your airway and your likelihood of developing the condition.

Types of
Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea comes in three main types, each requiring different approaches to treatment.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA is the most common form and occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much, causing a blockage in your airway. This leads to breathing interruptions during sleep.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

CSA happens when your brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. This type is less common and is usually associated with other health conditions.

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this condition occurs when someone has both obstructive and central sleep apnea. It often requires a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Effective Treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

CPAP Alternative Treatement

At Align Choice Orthodontics, we offer a range of treatments designed to address the specific type and severity of your sleep apnea. Here are some of the options available.

Oral Sleep Appliance

Oral sleep appliances are custom-made devices worn during sleep to keep your airway open. They fit like a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer and are a comfortable, non-invasive treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

Mandibular Advancement Devices

Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) work by moving your lower jaw slightly forward to maintain an open airway. This type of device is effective for treating obstructive sleep apnea and can significantly improve your sleep quality.

Occlusal Guard

An occlusal guard – also known as a bite guard or night guard – helps manage teeth grinding and jaw clenching that often accompany sleep apnea. It protects your teeth and jaw while also contributing to a better night’s sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions About
Sleep Apnea

If you have questions about sleep apnea, you’re not alone. Here are some common questions and answers to help you understand more about this condition and its treatments.

What is Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) and who is it for? Expand

Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) offers an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), serving as a reliable alternative to traditional CPAP therapy. This innovative approach utilizes a custom-made, removable oral appliance – similar to a mouthguard – worn during sleep. The specialized dental device works to stabilize the tongue and, in some cases, gently reposition the jaw, ensuring an open airway to prevent the collapse of soft tissues associated with sleep apnea. OAT is an ideal solution for individuals diagnosed with OSA, especially those seeking a comfortable and convenient alternative to CPAP machines. Our practice is proud to have Dr. Naghibi, a dentist with specialized training in orofacial pain from UCLA, where he also received extensive training in oral sleep appliances, bringing a unique and comprehensive understanding to your sleep apnea treatment in Everett and Mill Creek, WA.

How Does Oral Appliance Therapy Work? Expand

At Align Choice Orthodontics in Everett and Mill Creek, WA, your journey to better sleep begins with a thorough examination to determine if Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is the right sleep apnea treatment for you. Once confirmed, our skilled team meticulously crafts a personalized, custom-made oral sleep appliance. This comfortable dental device, akin to a mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, is designed to be worn nightly. Its core function is to prevent airway collapse, a common cause of difficulty breathing during sleep. By gently positioning your jaw forward and stabilizing your tongue, the appliance ensures a consistently open airway. Numerous medical studies confirm the efficacy of this dental appliance in effectively treating both Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and snoring, leading to improved breathing and more restorative sleep for our patients.

What are the Types of Oral Appliance Therapy? Expand While many different oral appliances are available, all share the primary goal of effectively treating obstructive sleep apnea. Though their precise size and appearance may vary, our experienced team of professionals like Dr. Naghibi, a dentist specialized in managing OSA at Align Choice Orthodontics, is best equipped to advise you on which specific dental appliance will be most suitable for your unique needs. Generally, the majority of oral sleep appliances fall into two main categories:

• Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRDs) or Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD): These oral appliances are specifically designed to gently reposition your lower jaw into a forward and slightly downward position. This strategic placement helps keep your airways open throughout the night, preventing obstruction while you sleep.
• Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs): These are straightforward oral appliances that work by holding your tongue in a forward position. By preventing the tongue from falling back, these devices also effectively keep the airways open, facilitating uninterrupted breathing.

Where can I find Oral Appliance Therapy in Everett, WA? Expand

For expert Oral Appliance Therapy in Everett, WA and Mill Creek, WA, look no further than Align Choice Orthodontics. Our clinic, led by Dr. Naghibi – a dentist with specialized training from UCLA in both orofacial pain and oral sleep appliances – offers comprehensive sleep apnea treatment using custom-made oral appliances. We are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve restful sleep and improve your overall well-being. You can learn more and schedule your FREE consultation by visiting our website at alignchoiceortho.com.

Is Oral Appliance Therapy covered by insurance? Expand

Yes, Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is often covered by medical insurance plans, as it’s considered a treatment for a medical condition (obstructive sleep apnea). While some dental insurance plans may have limited benefits, coverage for oral sleep appliances primarily falls under your medical insurance. At Align Choice Orthodontics, we understand that navigating insurance can be complex. That’s why our dedicated team goes the extra mile: we will thoroughly verify your insurance coverage, including both your medical and dental insurance – to determine your specific benefits. We also work with a dedicated third-party billing service to ensure your claims are processed efficiently, maximizing your coverage and minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for your sleep apnea treatment.

What are the benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy compared to CPAP? Expand Many patients find OAT more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines. Benefits include:

• Improved restful sleep
• Enhanced cognitive performance and concentration
• Reduced fatigue
• Decrease in snoring
• Portability and convenience (no electricity needed)
• Quieter than CPAP machines

Are there any side effects or risks associated with Oral Appliance Therapy? Expand

Common temporary side effects can include dry mouth, excessive salivation, and temporary jaw pain. In some cases, it can affect previous dental work or lead to loose teeth. Our Align Choice Orthodontics team will discuss potential risks and monitor your progress during follow-up appointments to ensure your comfort and the effectiveness of your oral appliance therapy.

Can sleep apnea be cured? Expand

While sleep apnea may not be completely curable, effective treatments can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Lifestyle changes, oral appliances, and other treatments can significantly reduce the impact of sleep apnea.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea? Expand

If you experience symptoms like loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and breathing interruptions during sleep, you should consult a healthcare professional. A sleep study can diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity.

Are oral appliances comfortable to wear? Expand

Yes, oral appliances for sleep apnea are designed to be comfortable. They are custom-fitted to your mouth and can be adjusted as needed to ensure a good fit and effective treatment.

What lifestyle changes can help with sleep apnea? Expand

Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and sleeping on your side can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.

These lifestyle changes – combined with professional treatments – can improve your sleep quality.

Do I need a referral for Oral Appliance Therapy at Align Choice Orthodontics? Expand

No referral is needed to begin your Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) journey at Align Choice Orthodontics. We welcome patients directly, without the need for a referral from another doctor. We encourage you to take advantage of our free consultation, where Dr. Naghibi can answer all your questions, conduct a thorough examination, and determine if OAT or a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) ( Oral Sleep Appliances) is the right solution for your sleep apnea and snoring concerns.

How much does an Oral Sleep Appliance (MAD or OAT) cost at Align Choice Orthodontics in Everett and Mill Creek WA? Expand

At Align Choice Orthodontics, we strive to make Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), including Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs), accessible and affordable for our patients near Everett and Mill Creek, WA. While the exact cost can vary slightly based on the specific appliance needed, our fees are very competitive, typically ranging between $1500 to $2000 without insurance coverage. We are committed to maximizing your insurance benefits; our team diligently works with both your medical and dental insurance providers to ensure you receive the most coverage possible, so with some insurance, it can be as low as FREE, based on your insurance. Additionally, to further assist with your investment in better sleep, we proudly offer in-house financing options.