Sleep apnea is the cessation of breathing for ten or more seconds at a time during sleep, and while anyone can suffer from this sleep disorder, it is more common for patients over the age of 60. That means it’s very important that your treatment option is covered by Medicare. If you are one of the thousands of US adults over 60 with sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy may be a great option for you, and most dental sleep medicine is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers.
When do I Seek Sleep Apnea Treatment from the Dentist?
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea but you’re unable to adjust to the sounds or sensations of CPAP, a sleep apnea appliance may be a better option for you. Dentists have years of training that allows them to thoroughly understand the way oral and facial structures work together. That includes the airway. We can create personalized treatment plans to open your airway with just one comfortable oral appliance.
What Treatments for Sleep Apnea Are Available?
Many patients believe that only CPAP therapies are available to treat sleep apnea. These systems force air into the throat to keep the airway open at night. Unfortunately, many patients are unable to adjust to these treatments. For patients who find themselves CPAP intolerant and those who don’t achieve adequate improvement from CPAP alone, oral appliance therapy is another possible solution. Oral appliances are more comfortable and portable than CPAP, making them a better option for many patients.
How Does Insurance Cover Sleep Appliances?
Most medical insurance providers and Medicare offer coverage for sleep apnea treatments. This includes both CPAP and oral appliances. If you want to make the most of your dental insurance or Medicare coverage, it’s important that you talk to your doctor to ensure you’re receiving the optimum coverage.
Meet Dr. West
Dr. Pamela West has years of advanced training and experience treating sleep apnea using custom crafted oral appliances. In her Las Vegas dental office, Dr. West offers a wide variety of appliances to reposition the jaw, keep the airway clear, and help patients improve their quantity and quality of sleep. Dr. West and her team also have years of experience processing and filing Medicare and other insurance claims. If you need help treating your sleep apnea, call iSleep Solutions to schedule your appointment with us today. We’ll evaluate your case and help you find the best solution to maximize your Medicare coverage.