A better night's rest.
If you have trouble getting a good nights rest or are told you snore, you may be one of the over 18 million Americans suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) which is caused by partial or complete blockage of the airways during sleep. Left untreated, Obstructive Sleep Apnea may lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease (stroke/heart attack)
- Weakened immune system
- Memory loss
- Irritability
- Poor mental health
- Sexual dysfunction
At Jackson Dental, we have incorporated a protocol to screen and aid in treatment of patients who may suffer from OSA.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral Appliance Therapy is a sleep therapy medical device created by dentists which positions the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep to open the airway for increased oxygen flow during breathing.
Trained by experts in the field of dental sleep medicine, Dr. Rob has brought cutting-edge technology to the patients in the Southeast Missouri area who have struggled with our shown to be intolerant of the CPAP machine.
By working closely with local sleep doctors, Dr. Etherton has been able to achieve exceptional results in treating patients with sleep apnea using an alternative to the often-cumbersome CPAP machine. This collaborative approach has allowed most patients to receive considerable help from their health insurance and/or Medicare in covering the cost of their oral appliance therapy. This creates a very cost-effective solution to a potentially deadly health concern.
Most major medical insurances, as well as Medicare, cover OAT. Furthermore, new technological advances allow for a compliance recorder to be placed on your appliance which makes OAT an option for those seeking to fulfill their DOT physical requirements.
How does the procedure work?
The procedure for Oral Appliance Therapy is very straightforward and easy on the patient. Dr. Rob will take records of your upper and lower teeth, as well as a record of how your teeth come together. These will be used for device creation and sleep therapy. The appliance is worn nightly and is adjusted at three-week intervals until the optimum lower jaw position is achieved.
What are the different appliance options?
There are a number of different FDA approved oral appliances currently available. One of our qualified family dentists will perform a thorough exam to determine the best options for you. You will be able to select an appliance from these options that you feel will be most comfortable, and that you will be most likely to wear.