11 Apr 5 Things to Expect from an Oral Appliance Therapy Consultation
Oral Appliance Therapy, or OAT, as it is sometimes called, is a treatment for sleep apnea and snoring that does not involve a CPAP machine. Instead, a small device is inserted into the mouth to keep the airway clear.
Before you decide whether OAT is right for you, you will need to consult with a specialist who understands both dental and sleep health. Crosspointe Sleep Solutions has the expertise to explore your sleep health options, and we’ve put together these 5 things to expect during an OAT consultation:
1. Discussing Your Options
Having the right information on hand is a big part of making yourself comfortable and smoothing the process. You’ll want to have the following information ready for your dentist:
- Insurance cards
- Family history of snoring or sleep apnea
- Observations from your sleeping partner
- Medical history
- Any relevant sleep study data
2. Your Exam
Beyond your history, the doctor will look at your mouth to see if you are a candidate for OAT. This exam is a little like a dental exam, but it looks beyond the health of your teeth and may involve the following:
- A detailed exam of the back of your mouth, including the epiglottis and nose
- X-rays of your teeth, upper and lower jaw, and the mandibular joint
3. Preparation
If you and your doctor decide to proceed, understand that your doctor will need some measurements before you can try out the device. Some of these include:
- Taking an impression of your upper and lower teeth
- Photographing your teeth and your bite
4. Fitting
It may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to make your OAT. Then your doctor will call you back in to fit the device in your mouth. During this visit you should:
- Try the mouthpiece
- Tell the doctor if there are any areas that rub your tongue or gums
- Listen to instructions for use and cleaning tips
5. Follow Up
After your fitting, you have a chance to try the OAT out for a few weeks before your doctor schedules a follow up appointment. This will give you a week or two to see how the appliance works for you. During the follow up visit you will:
- Report on your sleep
- Discuss the comfort of the device
Final Thoughts
Your relationship with your doctor does not end there. You will continue to see your doctor every year to ensure that the appliance is still in good working order. You will also need to contact your doctor after having any dental work done, since that may change the fit of your device.
If you are wondering if an OAT is right for you, contact Crosspointe Sleep Solutions, and we can help you explore your options.