Positive Airway

​Positive airway pressure devices are the most widely used treatment for Moderate and Severe Sleep Apnea. They have been endorsed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).  CPAP machine delivers air pressure through a mask placed over the nose during sleep.  With CPAP, the air pressure is greater than that of the surrounding air, and is just enough to keep the upper airway passages open and prevents apnea and snoring.
CPAP is the most common and reliable method of treating sleep apnea, but some people find it cumbersome and uncomfortable. There are different types of masks and it may take some time to find one that fits well, but for some it is just intolerable and it is for those patients that we have the answer.
CPAP treatment may also cause side effects in some patients.  These side effects include a dry or stuffy nose, irritated skin on the face, dry mouth and headaches.  If CPAP is not adjusted properly, patients may get stomach bloating and discomfort while wearing the mask. 
Dr. Anna Lee, a dentist trained in sleep apnea, can assist you with treatment by determining if you are a candidate for an oral dental device and then creating your custom appliance for therapy.  Dr. Lee conducts a full evaluation of your teeth, mouth, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to ensure that your teeth and jaw structure are healthy enough to wear an oral appliance. Following the examination, you will have models of your teeth made and a follow-up appointment is scheduled to fit your custom appliance.