Greetings, my name is Dr. Kari Ann Hong, and I have a family dentistry practice where I see patients from all age groups. In my practice, we help educate our patients about medical conditions that can affect someone’s long term health. Sleep apnea is one such condition, that is characterized by someone that stops breathing for at least 10 seconds for multiple times an hour. Severe sleep apnea is defined as anyone that stops breathing 25 times or more an hour for at least 10 seconds at a time.
Snoring is sometimes a symptom of sleep apnea, as is being able to easily fall asleep during the day. The only way to diagnose sleep apnea is to do a test while sleeping. Fortunately, these sleep tests can now be done in the comfort of your own bed. Once the sleep test has been done and a diagnosis of sleep apnea is made, then a variety of treatment options can be considered. For patients that have been diagnosed with mild or moderate sleep apnea or those that are unable to tolerate a CPAP, BIPAP, or APAP machine, then a dental sleep apnea appliance is recommended. In my office we have a machine that sends sonic sound waves through the mouth to determine the best jaw position to maximize the airway. An acrylic appliance that fits on the upper and lower arch is then made to mimic this jaw position.
The fabrication of a dental sleep apnea appliance is covered by PPO medical insurances. We have the ability to bill your medical insurance for you. If you are interested in a dental sleep apnea appliance, please fill out the contact us page below.