FAQs | Free Consultation

All You Need to Know

What is the process for getting fitted for the oral appliance?

The process involves a consultation with our sleep specialist. After an evaluation, impressions or digital scans of your teeth and mouth are taken to create a custom-fitted oral appliance

Can the oral appliance be adjusted for a more comfortable fit if needed?

Yes, the oral appliance can be adjusted to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness. We will be happy to make any necessary adjustments during follow-up appointments based on your feedback and any changes in your condition.

How is the fit of the appliance monitored and adjusted over time?

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the fit and effectiveness of the appliance. Adjustments may be made as needed to enhance comfort and efficacy. Additional testing will be initiated to check the efficiency of the appliance position.

What signs or symptoms should I watch for that might indicate the need for adjustments or modifications to the appliance?

Signs such as discomfort, persistent fatigue, and unrefreshed sleep despite consistent use of the appliance may indicate the need for adjustments. It’s important to communicate any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

How often will I need to follow up with you, and what maintenance is required for the oral appliance?

Follow-up schedules vary but typically initially 3 weeks after appliance delivery, then less frequently as treatment progresses. Maintenance involves regular cleaning and inspection of the appliance to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.

What is the recommended schedule for follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the treatment?

Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled within the first three weeks after receiving the appliance, then periodically thereafter based on individual needs and treatment progress.

What should I do if I experience discomfort or other issues with the oral appliance?

Contact us immediately if you experience discomfort or any issues with the appliance. We can make necessary adjustments or provide guidance on addressing the problem.

How will using the oral appliance impact my daily life and activities?

Using the oral appliance will improve sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue, and alleviate symptoms associated with sleep apnea. It generally has minimal impact on daily activities and allows for more freedom of movement compared to a CPAP machine.

Will using the oral appliance require any lifestyle changes or adjustments?

While lifestyle changes may not be required, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding certain habits may help ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the appliance.

How effective is the oral appliance compared to a CPAP machine in treating sleep apnea?

The oral appliance is highly effective. It is made specifically to accommodate your unique oral anatomy, and is custom adjusted based on the flexibility of your jaw. Thanks to this high level of customization and comfort, long term compliance is greater with oral appliance use than cpap use. Our trained dental staff and our patients have seen great results with oral sleep appliances.

Are there different types or designs of oral appliances available, and how do they differ in terms of comfort and fit?

Yes, there are various types of oral appliances, including mandibular advancement devices and tongue retaining devices. They differ in design and mechanism of action, with some offering adjustable features for personalized comfort and fit.

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using an oral appliance for sleep apnea?

Common side effects may include jaw discomfort, excessive salivation, or temporary changes in bite alignment. These are generally minimal and occur in the beginning stages while you are still getting used to your appliance. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

What maintenance is required for the oral appliance?

Regular cleaning and inspection are essential for maintaining the effectiveness and longevity of the oral appliance. Specific maintenance instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider.

How should I clean and care for the appliance to ensure its effectiveness and longevity?

Cleaning typically involves gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoiding abrasive cleaners and hot water is recommended to prevent damage to the appliance.

In the event that the oral appliance is not covered by my insurance, what payment plans/financing do you offer?

Payment plans or financing options may be available depending on the provider. Contact our office to discuss available options and financial arrangements.

Will you provide documentation or assistance with submitting insurance claims for the oral appliance?

Yes, our team can assist you with documentation and submitting insurance claims to help facilitate coverage for the oral appliance.

What information will I need to provide to my insurance company to ensure timely processing of the claim?

You may need to provide information such as diagnosis codes, procedure codes, and documentation from your healthcare provider. Our office can help ensure that all necessary information is submitted accurately.

Do I need my primary care physician's approval to seek treatment?

While a referral from your primary care physician may be beneficial, it is not always required. You can schedule a consultation directly with a qualified sleep specialist or dentist experienced in sleep apnea treatment.

How accurate and reliable is the Night Owl device in detecting sleep apnea compared to traditional sleep studies?

The Night Owl device has shown promising accuracy and reliability in detecting sleep apnea, comparable to traditional sleep studies. Its ability to monitor oxygen saturation levels and sleep patterns makes it a convenient and effective tool for identifying potential sleep apnea events.

Are there any factors that might affect the accuracy of the results, such as movement during sleep or environmental conditions?

Factors such as movement during sleep or environmental conditions could potentially affect the accuracy of the results obtained from the Night Owl device. Ensuring proper usage and following any guidelines provided by the manufacturer can help minimize such influences.

Will I need assistance or guidance in properly wearing and activating the device?

Most users find the Night Owl device easy to wear and activate without requiring assistance. The manufacturer typically provides clear instructions for setup and usage, minimizing the need for guidance. However, our team is available to answer any questions you may have.

How comfortable is the Night Owl device to wear on the fingertip during sleep?

The Night Owl device is designed to be worn on the fingertip during sleep. While comfort levels may vary from person to person, many users find it relatively comfortable to wear without significant disruption to their sleep.

Will wearing the device affect my ability to sleep normally, or will it cause discomfort or irritation?

Wearing the Night Owl device during sleep shouldn’t significantly affect your ability to sleep normally.

What type of data does the Night Owl device collect during sleep?

The Night Owl device collects various data during sleep, including oxygen saturation levels, heart rate, and apnea episodes.. These data points help analyze sleep quality and detect potential sleep apnea events.

How does the device measure and record sleep apnea events, and what parameters are analyzed to determine the presence and severity of sleep apnea?

The device measures and records sleep apnea events based on parameters such as changes in oxygen saturation levels and breathing patterns. Algorithms within the device analyze these parameters to detect the presence and severity of sleep apnea events.

Is there a minimum or maximum duration of testing required for reliable assessment of sleep apnea?

There is a minimum of 4 hours of sleep time for testing to be considered valid. There is no maximum duration of testing required..

Does my health insurance cover the cost of using the Night Owl device for sleep apnea testing?

Whether your health insurance covers the cost of using the Night Owl device for sleep apnea testing depends on your insurance provider and policy. We use a third party testing company to facilitate home sleep testing. Once the sleep testing order is confirmed, It’s advisable to check with the testing company directly or your insurance company to understand your coverage options.

How do I return the device after completing the testing period, and what is the process for returning it to the provider?

The Night Owl device is preset with up to 100 hours of testing time. It is advisable to store your Night Owl in a safe place to be used again for future testing.

Find Your Way to Better Sleep

Great South Bay

Address:

785 West Montauk Highway, West Babylon, NY 11704, US

Office Hours:

  • Thursday 1:30 p.m - 7:30 p.m
  • Friday 10:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m

Gateway Plaza

Address:

499 Sunrise Highway, Suite 13B Patchogue, NY 11772, US

Office Hours:

  • Monday 1:30 p.m - 7:30 p.m
  • Tuesday 7:30 a.m - 1:30 p.m
  • Alternating Saturdays 7:30 a.m - 1:30 p.m
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