Sleep Apnea in Houston, TX

While snoring is a major symptom of sleep apnea, the condition is much more serious than an annoying snoring problem. The first method most people try to treat their sleep apnea is oral appliance therapy (OAT), also known a night guard, unless a doctor has prescribed at CPAP machine. A custom night guard ensures the jaw sits in the correct position while the patient sleeps to prevent sleep apnea. A CPAP machine is a face mask worn to help the patient breathe during sleep. Patients, who have been diagnosed with or suspect they may have sleep apnea, should schedule an appointment with Houston, TX area Accredited Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Urich to learn more about their treatment options.

Patients may get a sleep study before they come to the dentist to learn about treatments or patients can use a home sleep study kit from our office that will help us better understand their needs. Every night guard is custom-made to give patients a comfortable, secure fit. The dentist will take impressions of the patient's teeth that will be sent to a dental laboratory where the oral appliance will be made with the highest-quality equipment and materials. Once the night guard is returned to the dentist's office, the patient will return to have their appliance properly fitted. After that, the patient is encouraged to wear their night guard whenever they lay down to sleep and note any improvements in snoring, fatigue, high blood pressure, and other conditions caused by sleep apnea.

Patients will be given instructions on how to wear and care for their oral appliance to make sure it lasts for several years. The night guard should be brought to all future visits to the dentist, even for exams and cleanings, so the dentist can assess the wear of the appliance and re-fit for greater comfort. While proper care will help the night guard last for a long time, it will eventually need to be replaced to remain an effective sleep apnea treatment.

Our office will help patients communicate with their dental insurance companies to determine their coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

You should wear your sleep apnea oral appliance as directed by your doctor. You should wear the appliance nightly to avoid some of the negative health consequences sleep apnea can bring.

Patients will be given instructions on how to wear and care for their oral appliance to make sure it lasts for several years. The night guard should be brought to all future visits to the dentist, even for exams and cleanings, so the dentist can assess the wear of the appliance and re-fit for greater comfort. While proper care will help the night guard last for a long time, it will eventually need to be replaced to remain an effective sleep apnea treatment.

If you or your sleeping partner may have sleep apnea, please schedule an appointment to learn more about treatments. Not only will everyone get a more peaceful night's sleep, but patients with sleep apnea are at higher risk for several medical problems, including high blood pressure, heart conditions, and obesity.