Dentistry's Next Level
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Sleep
I snore, does that mean I have Sleep Apnea? Answer: Sleep is an indicator. But not the definitive answer. A sleep study will need to be performed to give the diagnosis.
Do I need to have a sleep study before coming in? Answer: No it’s not necessary. If you have never had a sleep study we can set you up with a sleep center or set you up with a home sleep test. If you have completed a sleep study and been prescribed a CPAP or oral appliance it will help facilitate the process.
Why is Sleep Apnea a Big Deal? Answer: When a person stops breathing, there is a loss of oxygen to the heart and brain. This can lead to cardiac arrest (heart attack) in severe cases, making it a life threatening chronic condition.
I have a CPAP and I don’t like it. Can I get an Oral Appliance Answer: A person can always receive an oral appliance. Even if you have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea, but snore. The difference is that if it is coordinated with your physician or sleep specialist, and insurance is involved, it can dramatically reduce your cost. A prescription from your doctor is the quickest most effective way to get an oral appliance. If you don’t have this, it is still possible to proceed. So don’t let the lack of a doctor or prescription stop you from visiting us. Schedule an appointment today.
I have a sleep study, Do I need another one? Answer: In most cases if your sleep study is less than 5 years old, that should be acceptable
What are the risk factors for sleep apnea? Answer: If you are male, older than 50, Obese, and have a family history of sleep apnea
I need a new oral appliance. Will my insurance cover it? Answer: If it has been more than 3 years, a replacement may be covered. We can check your eligibility.
Do I need a referral to visit Facial Kinetics? Answer: In most circumstances no, it’s not necessary. If you have Medicare, a referral will be needed for your sleep appliance.
Frequently Asked TMJ / Jaw Pain Questions:
I want to buy a grinding guard over the counter, Is that ok?
Answer: An OTC appliance will not be the same quality as a custom made appliance. For some people they may find them helpful. For most they don’t find them to be effective and in some cases their symptoms get worse.
My jaw click and pops is that normal?
Answer: A large percentage of the population experience jaw joint sounds. For some that is normal and can be attributed to the aging process. Pain is not normal. It is our body’s way of telling us something isn’t right.
I already wear a guard, why do I need another one?
Answer: All guards are not the same or adjusted the same way. If your jaw problems have resolved, then another may not be indicated. But if your symptoms extend past your jaw then new/different orthotic may be needed.
Do I need TMJ surgery?
Answer: As a last resort surgery can be an option. In some cases due to skeletal and degenerative changes of the joint and non-invasive techniques will not fully rehabilitate the area.
What can I do to help my TMJ?
Answer: A big key is to allow the area to reduce its inflammation. That means letting the muscles not over-work. A soft diet, Warm/moist heat, and anti-inflammatories can help
What about gum chewing?
Answer: Our recommendation is to immediately stop. Our muscles and joints of the jaw were not designed to always be in use. Our Jaws are for eating and speaking. Constant mild forces from chewing gum, ice, and tobacco can be harmful.
Do I need a referral to see you?
Answer: In most cases it’s not necessary. Contact us to determine your eligibility
Do you see children?
Answer: In most circumstances our treatment begins at age 8. Often there is not enough physical maturity for our prescribed treatment methods. But in some cases we will see them younger.
Do you do any other dental services?
Answer: NO we DO NOT. We only offer services dealing with problems of sleep, TMJ, Headaches. Please consult your family dentist for any other services.