Oral Appliance Therapy:

• Custom-Fit Devices: These appliances, similar in appearance to a mouthguard or retainer, are custom-fabricated to fit comfortably over the teeth and are worn during sleep.
• Airway Support: The appliance gently positions the lower jaw forward, helping to maintain an open airway and prevent the tongue from collapsing backward and obstructing airflow.
• Expert Evaluation: A dentist certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) should evaluate your candidacy for oral appliance therapy. At Midwest Dental Sleep Center, all treating dentists are Diplomates of the ABDSM, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Therapy:

• How It Works: A mask is worn and connects to a machine that uses pressurized air to maintain an open airway during sleep. The mask may consist of small nasal inserts or pillows, or it may cover the nose, mouth, or both (a full-face mask), depending on individual needs and comfort.
• Customized Pressure Settings: Air pressure may remain constant or adjust automatically throughout the night, as directed by the prescribing sleep physician.
• Effectiveness Depends on Consistent Use: PAP therapy is effective only when used consistently. Symptoms of apnea may recur if the device is not used as recommended.

Combination Therapy:

• Involves the simultaneous use of an oral appliance and positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy.
• This method can reduce the required PAP pressure and enhance overall treatment effectiveness.

Hybrid Therapy:
 

• Custom hybrid therapy connects a custom oral appliance to a CPAP nasal pillow mask via a custom interface between the two.
• This combination eliminates straps, stabilizes your jaw, prevents mask shifting, and potentially uses lower levels of air pressure due to its synergistic effect.