Do you or someone close to you struggle daily with low energy or persistent snoring, and feel too drained and sluggish to carry on a full and active life? Millions in this situation have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, which limits the amount of oxygen your body receives as you sleep.
For years, people suffering from this debilitating health condition have gained relief using a CPAP machine that feeds oxygen through a hose to a mask worn by the patient. But were you aware an even simpler solution is available, one with less potential impact on sleep partners?
“Many people are unable to tolerate the mask or the noise of a CPAP machine,” says award-winning dentist Dr. Syeda Bakhtawar with Artisan Dental in Bellevue. A sleep apnea expert with the prestigious standing of Diplomate with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Bakhtawar says many patients find custom-fitted oral appliances reduce the effects of the condition. The mouthguard-like appliance works by keeping the lower jaw forward and the airway clear.
“Oral appliance therapy is life-changing for our patients,” she says. “We hear their stories and struggles with CPAP and how this has successfully transformed their lives and relationships.” Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with blood pressure problems, stroke, arrhythmias and heart failure. Better sleep can help reduce these risks, she adds.
Wondering if oral appliances could work for you? Consider these points:
Helping lower your cost – Insurance coverage is handled through a patient’s medical plan rather than dental coverage. To make it easier to consider an oral appliance, Artisan Dental will work with your medical insurance provider to facilitate coverage that decreases your end cost. They are in network with many insurance companies such as Premera, Aetna and Cigna.
Free consultation for referrals – If your doctor refers you for an oral appliance consultation with Dr. Bakhtawar to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, the consult and medical insurance preauthorizations are complimentary.
No coverage? No problem – If you have no insurance coverage for oral appliances, Artisan Dental’s fees are highly competitive, Dr. Bakhtawar says. Ask about their care credits and in-house payment plans!
Working with the leader – Artisan Dental is a SomnoMed Preferred Network Provider that supplies this FDA-approved high-quality brand of oral appliance in Bellevue and Seattle. SomnoMed is a global leader in continuous open airway therapy and Artisan Dental delivers the highest number of these appliances in the region.
Regular follow-up care –Long-term support begins from the moment you receive your new oral appliance. You’ll receive a fitted morning repositioner to realign your bite, and learn jaw exercises that also help. All appliances come with a minimum three-year warranty!
Part of your health-care team – Artisan Dental corresponds with your physician at every stage of care, to keep them informed of your progress and to ensure common care goals are met.
To learn more visit artisandentalbellevue.com or call 425-454-2005 for an appointment. You can also stay current on Artisan Dental’s Facebook page.
