Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment – Las Vegas, NV

What Happens If Sleep Apnea Isn’t Treated?

It’s unfortunately all too common for sleep apnea to go undiagnosed and untreated for a very long time. This is a major issue because the disorder can have a severe impact on your overall health in the long term. In general, people with untreated sleep apnea tend to suffer from high blood pressure, and they have an increased risk for cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

On top of that, sleep apnea can leave you feeling very drowsy during the day. Consequently, you may be more likely to get into an accident while driving or while working with heavy machinery. On top of that, the lack of quality slumber can have an impact on your mental state; it’s not unusual for people with sleep apnea to experience symptoms of depression.

In short, as soon as you notice any symptoms that could possibly point toward sleep apnea, you should start exploring your treatment options. It’s best to have the disorder addressed quickly before it can lead to truly dire consequences.

How Do You Treat Sleep Apnea Without a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP machine is a device that uses a steady stream of air in order to prevent your airway from being obstructed while you slumber. While CPAP machines are known to be effective when it comes to fighting sleep apnea, many patients dislike them for being too noisy or uncomfortable.

If you would rather not rely on a CPAP machine, you can talk to your sleep dentist about getting an oral appliance instead. An oral appliance helps keep the airway clear either by slightly repositioning the lower jaw or by holding the tongue in place. Our practice offers a variety of oral appliances to choose from based on your needs.

Bear in mind, though, that oral appliances work best for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. You may still require a CPAP machine if your sleep disorder is particularly severe.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea?

The short answer is yes, insurance can often be used to help pay for a personalized oral appliance. However, even if said appliance is provided by a dental professional, it most likely won’t be covered by dental insurance. Instead, you can typically expect it to fall under your medical insurance. This is because sleep apnea is considered a medical issue rather than a dental issue.

How Do I Choose the Best Dentist to Treat My Sleep Apnea?

There are several factors that you will likely want to consider before choosing a dentist for your sleep apnea treatment. Will they take your insurance? What kind of treatment options do they offer? Are they located nearby? It can be helpful to write down exactly what it is you’re looking for so that you can make an informed decision when you pick a sleep dentist.