Summer is just
right around the corner. Many Americans
will be on family vacations, business trips and leisure travel. For people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA),
travel can be a hassle of bringing along the continuous positive air pressure
(CPAP) device that includes a face mask, tubing and a constantly running motor.
Is there an alternative device for
treating patients with obstructive sleep apnea besides CPAP? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is an effective
treatment option for treating patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep
apnea.
Oral appliance
therapy (OAT) is a custom fit sleep appliance.
OAT is worn only during sleep and it fits like a sports mouth
guard. There is no mask, tubing or
running motor. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an
open upper airway. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)
recommends OAT for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
(OSA).
Obstructive
sleep apnea is diagnosed by the physician.
Once the patient is diagnosed with OSA, the physician and the patient
can decide the best treatment option. If
OAT is the treatment option, the physician writes a prescription and refers
patients to the Glendora Dentist
who can provide OAT.
