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There are a variety of treatment options for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, including Oral Appliance Therapy, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), and surgery. Dr. Kitzmiller offers Oral Appliance Therapy, a CPAP alternative scientifically proven to be an effective and comfortable treatment for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine supports oral appliances as a first-line treatment for mild and moderate obstructive sleep apnea and as an alternative for severe apnea when CPAP is not tolerated by the patient.
How does an oral appliance work?
Oral appliances, such the TAP® and SomnoMed, are custom-made, adjustable devices a patient wears while sleeping. The trays of an oral appliance, which look like teeth-whitening trays, snap over the upper and lower teeth and utilize an advancement mechanism which permits unlimited advancement of the lower jaw.
 The design is based on the same principle as CPR - keep the airway open to allow air to pass through to the throat and to the lungs. Oral appliances hold the lower jaw forward, preventing the tongue and throat tissues from collapsing into the airway. Both the SomnoMed and the TAP® appliances feature an adjustment mechanism that lets patients fine-tune the position for maximum results.
Dr. Kitzmiller will prescribe the appropriate treatment for your unique needs. He'll work with you to ensure your satisfaction and give you the peaceful sleep and healthy living you deserve.
What is CPAP
 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is pressurized air generated from a bedside machine. The air is delivered through a tube connected to a mask, covering the nose. The force of the pressurized air forces the airway open and keeps it open throughout the night. While CPAP is highly effective at treating sleep apnea, many patients are unable to adapt to it due to claustrophobia, pressure intolerance, travel inconvenience, or discomfort.
Surgical Options
There are a number of surgical options to consider if neither of the non-invasive treatments listed above are successful. Surgery should always be a last resort in your effort to stop snoring and treat sleep apnea. Surgery, while in the short term may be effective, is invasive and in most cases permanent.
Dr. Kitzmiller will prescribe the appropriate treatment for your unique needs. He'll work with you to ensure your satisfaction and give you the peaceful sleep and healthy living you deserve.
Call today to schedule your complimentary oral appliance consultation with Dr. Kitzmiller. Our Milford dental office provides Milford/ Loveland and the Greater Cincinnati area with personalized care for healthy living. |
