Tired of sleepless nights and daytime fatigue? Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that disrupts your breathing, your sleep, and your overall health.
At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, Dr. Catherine McDevitt utilizes her specialized training in airway orthodontics to provide effective, non-invasive solutions like oral appliance therapy, helping you breathe easier and get the restorative sleep you deserve.
Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Impact
Sleep apnea is a form of sleep-disordered breathing where your airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep, causing you to stop breathing for short periods. These pauses can happen hundreds of times a night, preventing your brain and body from getting the oxygen they need. If left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
Your Partner in Better Sleep: Dr. Catherine McDevitt
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Catherine McDevitt has a deep understanding of facial and oral structures. Her expertise in sleep apnea orthodontics allows her to accurately assess how the alignment of your jaw and teeth affects your airway. Unlike corporate clinics, Dr. Catherine provides personalized, one-on-one care, taking the time to understand your unique situation and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
You can trust her commitment to improving your health and quality of life.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Can Help
For many patients, especially those with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is an excellent alternative to a CPAP machine. This modern treatment involves wearing a custom-fitted device, similar to a mouthguard or retainer, while you sleep.
The appliance works by gently shifting your lower jaw forward or holding your tongue in place. This simple adjustment keeps your airway open, allowing for continuous airflow and preventing the breathing interruptions that define sleep apnea.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy include:
- Comfortable: Custom-made for your mouth, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit.
- Convenient: Small, portable, and easy to care for, especially when traveling.
- Quiet: The device is silent, so there is no disruptive machine noise for you or your partner.
- Non-Invasive: A simple and effective solution without the need for masks, hoses, or surgery.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
Your journey to better sleep begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Worthington office. Dr. Catherine will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw, and airway.
She will discuss your symptoms, review any sleep studies you may have, and determine if you are a candidate for oral appliance therapy. We believe in transparency and patient education, so we will walk you through every step, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is oral appliance therapy effective for all types of sleep apnea?
Oral appliance therapy is most effective for treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During your consultation, Dr. Catherine will evaluate your specific condition to determine if this treatment is the right fit for you. In some cases, it may be used in combination with other therapies.
How long does it take to get used to wearing the oral appliance?
Most patients adjust to wearing their custom-fitted oral appliance within a few nights to a couple of weeks. Because the device is tailored specifically to your mouth, it is designed for maximum comfort.
Will my insurance cover oral appliance therapy?
Many medical insurance plans offer coverage for oral appliance therapy as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Our team will work with you to help you understand your benefits and navigate the insurance process.
What is the difference between an over-the-counter mouthguard and a custom oral appliance?
Over-the-counter devices are not custom-fitted and can be ineffective or even worsen your condition. A custom-made oral appliance from an orthodontic specialist like Dr. Catherine is fabricated based on precise impressions of your teeth, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and effective treatment.
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation Today
If you are struggling with snoring and daytime fatigue, don’t wait to seek help. A Winning Smile Orthodontics proudly serves patients in Worthington, Columbus, Dublin, Lewis Center, and Westerville.
Contact us today at (614) 888-8070 to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Catherine and take the first step toward a healthier, more restful life.