Sleep Apnea/Snoring

Obstructive Sleep Apnea
(OSA)

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