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FAQ: Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment

Frequently asked questions about oral appliance therapy for snoring and sleep apnea with Gillum Dentistry in Greenwood, Indiana.  Helping our patients fight snoring and sleep apnea to take back the quality of life they deserve!




What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep apnea is a condition that affects the way you breathe when you sleep. In untreated sleep apnea, breathing is briefly interrupted or becomes very shallow during sleep. Typically these episodes can last between 10 to 20 seconds and can occur up to hundreds of times a night.

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I snore, do I have sleep apnea?

Snoring could be a sign of sleep apnea, a common and potentially dangerous sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts while you sleep. The biggest indication is how you feel during the day. Normal snoring doesn’t interfere with the quality of your sleep as much as sleep apnea does, making you less likely to suffer from extreme fatigue and sleepiness during the day if you have simple snoring as opposed to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Snoring can be more than annoying – it can still be a danger to your health. Click here to take a quick sleep test to see if you may be at an increased risk of having sleep apnea.

What will my Dentist do for Snoring & Sleep Apnea?

Dr. Richard Gillum will thoroughly examine your teeth and mouth. He may use Digital X-rays to confirm your oral health status and ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for the appliance. Dental impressions are required to fabricate your Oral Appliance for Sleep. They are then sent to the  laboratory where the appliance is made. Once custom made for you, the appliance will be fitted by Dr. Gillum who will show you how to use your Oral Appliance for Snoring & Sleep Apnea, as well as how to clean and care for it.

What is an Oral Appliance for Snoring & Sleep Apnea?

An oral appliance for snoring & sleep apnea is a small custom made Medically Prescribed custom dental device, similar to a removable orthodontic retainer. It is worn during sleep to improve the function of the upper airway by increasing its size and reducing its ability to collapse. Some oral appliances hold the lower jaw forward during sleep while others have a direct effect on tongue position. Oral appliances for snoring and sleep apnea work by improving the passage of air flow and by preventing the tongue from collapsing against the back of the throat. Narrowing of the airway produces Snoring and collapse causes obstructive Sleep Apnea. Although oral appliances are not appropriate for everyone, a properly selected well-made, well-fitted oral appliance will reduce or eliminate snoring, and can significantly relieve symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

When is an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea worn?

The SomnoDent oral appliance is only worn when you sleep. The SomnoDent is very discrete, allowing you to close your lips so it is not obvious you are wearing it. You can wear it to take a nap and the person next to you on the plane will never know you have it in.

Are Oral Appliances comfortable?

You will not find a more comfortable oral appliance than the SomnoDent Brand Oral Appliance. Because it is custom-made to fit your mouth and it does not impinge on your tongue. You can open and close your mouth normally as the SomnoDent Appliance does not lock or fix your jaws together. You can talk and drink as well without removing the appliance.

Is there a warranty on my Oral Appliance?

Yes. The SomnoDent offers a warranty against manufacturing defects, which means you can have full confidence in the product. When it comes to quality and durability the SomnoDent has no rival. While other appliances seem to last about 3 years the SomnoDent could easily last 10.

What if I have a Dental Bridge or Denture?

Patients with upper dentures may be successfully fitted with the SomnoDent, as long as there are sufficient teeth on the lower arch for retention. Dr. Gillum will be able to address this with you. The SomnoDent may be fitted over dental implants.