Diagnosis of OSA
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious medical condition (heart disease) and must be diagnosed by a physician. Diagnosis is based on the results of an overnight sleep study called a Polysomnogram (PSG), along with a patient evaluation and history.
Treatment Options:
- Weight Loss
- Good sleep hygiene
- CPAP (Continuous Airway Pressure)
- Oral Appliance Therapy (Mild-Moderate OSA)
- Surgery
Oral Appliance Therapy:
- If you have moderate to severe OSA an initial trial with a nasal CPAP is necessary due to its greater effectiveness than an oral appliance.
- If you cannot tolerate or refuse to use your CPAP and with a release from your physician an oral appliance can be tried.
Oral Appliances:
- Your oral appliance is a devise that is worn in the mouth, similar to an orthodontic retainer or a sport mouthguard.
- The appliance tries to prevent collapse of your tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat.
- The appliance attempts to keeps your airway open during sleep, promoting adequate air intake.
- There are 70 types of oral appliances available. There are basically two categories: Mandibular Repositioning Appliance (MRA) or Tongue Retained Appliances (TRA).
- For additional Sleep information you can go to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine website (dentalsleepmed.org) of which Dr Borquez is a member.
I was referred to Dr. Borquez by my sleep physician because I could not tolerate my CPAP unit. Dr. Borquez was able to improve my sleep with an oral appliance. I and along with my physician were impressed with his caring and knowledge of sleep problems.
Thank you Dr Borquez. Esther P. Ventura, Ca