Data Gathering and Prescription

1. Our process begins with gathering the information needed to determine whether an oral sleep appliance is an appropriate treatment option. If you already have a qualifying sleep test, we will ask you to bring it to your appointment or have it sent to our office. We will also review your medical history, including conditions that may affect sleep-disordered breathing, such as cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, cognitive decline, hormonal imbalances, or urological concerns. In addition, we may evaluate tongue size, jaw size, neck size, and X-rays, if needed.

2. Next, we screen for any obvious anatomical obstruction affecting the airway. To do this, we may use additional airway evaluation tools, such as a pharyngometer to measure airway volume in the throat and a rhinometer to measure nasal airflow. If we identify an obstruction that may require medical management, we may refer you to an ENT specialist or pulmonologist for further evaluation.

3. If additional testing is needed, we may ask you to complete a sleep study. Depending on your situation, this may be either a comprehensive in-lab sleep test, known as polysomnography, or a home sleep test. A board-certified sleep physician will interpret the results, which helps determine whether an oral sleep appliance is an appropriate treatment for your sleep disorder.

4. If an oral sleep appliance is prescribed, we then begin the process of customizing the device to your individual needs.

The Building Process & Calibration

1. The next stage involves a more detailed dental evaluation. This includes measurements of the upper and lower jaw, dental impressions, the prescribed bite relationship, and the correct vertical dimension. We also select the material that will be used to fabricate the appliance.

2. Once the appliance has been made, you will return to the office for delivery and final adjustments. At that visit, we will review take-home instructions and schedule a series of follow-up appointments.

3. During follow-up visits, we calibrate the appliance as needed to improve comfort and effectiveness. The goal is to confirm that your sleep-related health measures are improving. This may include better oxygen saturation, fewer apnea or hypopnea episodes, and reduced fatigue or daytime sleepiness.