According to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, approximately 25 million adults in the United States have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can cause them to stop breathing hundreds of times a night for anywhere from a few seconds to more than a minute! Sadly, many of these people do not seek sleep apnea treatment.
Often, sleep apnea sufferers realize the extent to which they were affected by this disorder only after they finally get a good night’s sleep. If you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, we can help you find relief.
Sleep Apnea Expertise at Oshkosh Smiles
Dr. Mike Hanneman is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine http://www.aadsm.org/findadentist.aspx#. This organization is focused on helping dentists in the treatment of sleep-disordered breathing through professional education, practice standards, collaborative care, clinical research, public relations and health policy.
Treatment Options
Obstructive sleep apnea is caused when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat during sleep, blocking the upper airway. The traditional treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is CPAP therapy. Patients can find the treatment to be uncomfortable and cumbersome.
An alternative that is quiet and less obtrusive is oral appliance therapy. Research from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine shows that oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Oral appliances support your jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. Oral appliance therapy is covered by many medical insurance plans.
