Oral appliances work by slightly advancing the lower jaw which moves the base of the tongue forward and opens the airway to allow improved breathing and reduced snoring and apneas during sleep.

When used to treat mild or moderate sleep apnea, an oral appliance can be just as effective as using a CPAP machine. When treating apnea, the appliance is 60-80% effective. Patients will see different results depending on the severity of their apnea.

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There are two main categories of oral appliances currently in use: they are mandibular advancement devices (MAD) and tongue retaining devices(TRD).

MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT DEVICES

Custom-made for each patient
Made of a special acrylic or nylon material
Fit snugly but comfortably over the upper and lower teeth
Holds the lower jaw slightly forward to open the airway and restore normal breathing during sleep

Have a built-in adjustment mechanism that allows gradual advancement of the jaw to help achieve optimum effectiveness

TONGUE RETAINING DEVICES

Custom-made and pre-fabricated models are available
Made of a soft, pliable material
Have a compartment that fits around the tongue to hold it forward by means of suction

Used most often for patients with dentures or for those whose jaw cannot be adequately advanced

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We will work with you to determine the best device specific to your concerns, mouth shape, and comfort levels. All oral appliances are made custom to fit the patient's mouth.

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Under normal circumstances the appliance generally lasts 2-5 years, but many last longer than 5 years.

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1.   Receive a referral from GEM Sleep to our preferred Sleep Medicine Dentist

2.   Provide your insurance information (if available).

3.   Complete an initial (free) consultation call.

4.   Complete a series of appointments to take measurements for the device, fit the device, and make future adjustments if needed. Patients typically have 2-3 visits in the first 6 months, and then semi-annual or annually after that.

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If coverage is available for oral appliances, it would come from the medical insurance carrier. Coverage will vary by insurance plan type and provider, but generally oral appliances are covered (up to a certain dollar amount) for patients with an Obstructive Sleep Apnea Diagnosis. We will work with you and your insurance company to determine your benefits.

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If GEM SLEEP is in network with your health plan, we will submit an insurance claim on your behalf for any services provided. Once your insurance has paid the claim, if there is a remaining patient portion due, we will send you a separate invoice. If you wish to receive a good-faith estimate for the services prior to completing the check-out process please email us at support@mygemsleep.com. Estimates will be provided based on your current insurance status, but are subject to change based on when the actual claim is submitted and the services actually rendered.