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How a Mandibular Advancement Device Helped One Couple Reclaim Their Best Lives



As a dentist specializing in sleep apnea treatment, nothing brings me greater satisfaction than helping my patients find lasting relief from their symptoms. Today, I want to share an inspiring success story from a patient who, with the help of a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), has not only improved their own health but also transformed their relationship.

Meet Sarah

Sarah came to me several months ago, feeling exhausted, irritable, and frustrated. She had been struggling with the symptoms of mild to moderate sleep apnea for years—waking up frequently throughout the night, snoring loudly, and feeling tired no matter how many hours of sleep she got. Her partner, Tom, had been noticing the impact as well, often having trouble sleeping due to the noise and the worry about Sarah’s interrupted breathing.

Sarah had tried various over-the-counter remedies, but nothing seemed to help. She was hesitant about using a CPAP machine, which can be bulky and uncomfortable, and she wasn’t sure if there was an alternative that could work for her.

The Solution: A Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)

After assessing Sarah’s condition, I recommended a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), a non-invasive and comfortable solution to treat sleep apnea. The MAD is a custom-made oral appliance that gently moves the lower jaw forward to open the airway and reduce the airway obstruction that causes snoring and apnea.

The beauty of the MAD is that it's small, discreet, and easy to wear, unlike the loud and cumbersome CPAP machines. It’s an ideal choice for people like Sarah, who wanted a solution that was both effective and easy to incorporate into their lifestyle.

A Transformation

After Sarah received her MAD, the results were almost immediate. Her snoring reduced significantly, and she no longer woke up gasping for air in the middle of the night. Sarah started getting deeper, more restful sleep, and with it came a wave of positive changes in her life. She felt more energized throughout the day, her mood improved, and she was finally able to focus on the things she loved doing again—whether it was working, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening at home.

But the transformation didn’t just stop with Sarah. Tom, her partner, also saw the positive changes. No longer was he waking up in the middle of the night due to Sarah’s snoring or anxiety over her breathing. They were both able to enjoy a much better night’s sleep, and their relationship flourished as a result.

Living Their Best Lives

Sarah and Tom are now living their best lives together. Sarah has regained her confidence and energy, and their relationship has never been stronger. The couple is now spending more quality time together, traveling, and enjoying the simple pleasures in life—like waking up refreshed and ready to take on the day.

For Sarah, the MAD wasn’t just a treatment for sleep apnea; it was a life-changing solution that helped her reclaim her health and happiness, and improved the quality of life for her partner as well.

Your Turn to Take Control

If you or someone you love is struggling with sleep apnea symptoms, know that there is hope. You don’t have to suffer through restless nights or worry about the long-term health impacts of untreated sleep apnea. With a Mandibular Advancement Device, you can take control of your health and get the rest you deserve.

Just like Sarah, many patients find that the MAD is a simple, comfortable, and effective solution that can truly change their lives. If you think a MAD could be the right fit for you, I encourage you to schedule a consultation to see how we can help you get back to living your best life, just like Sarah and Tom.

Here's to better sleep, better health, and a better life!


 
 
 

Comments

  • What should I bring or upload for my first appointment?
    1) A copy of your sleep study (if available.) 2) Clear images of the front and back of your MEDICAL insurance card 3) By completing the registration form, you give implied consent for me to run a medical insurance benefits check on your behalf.
  • How long does it take to get a custom oral appliance?
    Once we take impressions of your teeth, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to fabricate your custom oral appliance. After it’s ready, we’ll schedule a fitting appointment to ensure it’s comfortable and effective.
  • What are the side effects of treatment with a mandibular advancement device (MAD)?
    While mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are highly effective for treating sleep apnea and snoring, some patients may experience mild side effects, especially during the initial adjustment period. These side effects are typically temporary and can often be managed with minor adjustments to the device. Common side effects include: 1. Jaw Discomfort or Soreness: - As your jaw adjusts to the new position, you may experience mild soreness or stiffness, particularly in the morning. This usually subsides within a few days to weeks. 2. Tooth Discomfort: - Some patients report temporary tooth sensitivity or pressure as the device gently shifts the jaw. This typically resolves as your mouth adapts. 3. Dry Mouth or Excessive Salivation: - Wearing a MAD can sometimes cause dry mouth or, conversely, increased saliva production. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier in your bedroom can help. 4. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Discomfort: - In rare cases, patients with pre-existing TMJ issues may experience mild discomfort. If this occurs, we can adjust the device or recommend additional therapies to alleviate the issue. 5. Minor Bite Changes: - Some patients notice slight, temporary changes in their bite after prolonged use. These changes are usually reversible and can be managed with regular follow-ups and adjustments. 6. Gum or Soft Tissue Irritation: - If the device doesn’t fit perfectly, it may cause minor irritation to your gums or soft tissues. We can easily adjust the fit to resolve this. What can I do to minimize side effects? - Follow our care instructions for your MAD, including proper cleaning and maintenance. - Attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. - Communicate any discomfort or concerns to us immediately—we’re here to help! Most patients find that any initial side effects are outweighed by the significant improvements in their sleep quality and overall health. If you have concerns about side effects, we’re happy to discuss them during your consultation.
  • What insurances do you work with?
    At CNY Dental Sleep, we believe in honest, patient-centered care—which means no financial surprises. While we work with most major insurance plans, our priority is ensuring you receive the treatment you need without unnecessary stress. If we’re in-network with your insurance, we’ll handle all claims and paperwork for you. If we’re out-of-network, don’t worry—we’ll still file your claims and work with your insurer to maximize your benefits. Our goal is to keep care accessible and predictable. We’d rather find a way to make it work than turn anyone away. Have a plan we don’t typically work with? Just ask! We’ll review your coverage together and find a solution that fits your needs.
  • How often should I have my oral appliance checked or replaced?
    We recommend having your oral appliance checked at least once a year to ensure it’s functioning properly. Most devices last 3-5 years with proper care, but wear and tear or changes in your dental structure may require earlier replacement.
  • What should I expect during my first appointment?
    During your first visit, we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and any previous sleep study results. We may also perform an oral examination to assess your jaw structure and discuss whether an oral appliance is right for you. If so, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fitted device.
  • Where are you located?
    We are conveniently located in the Madison Irving Medical Building at: 475 Irving Ave, Suite 110 Syracuse, NY 13210 We share the same office as CNY Dental Arts, making it easy for patients to access both dental and dental sleep medicine services in one place. If you have any trouble finding us, feel free to give us a call, and we’ll be happy to guide you!
  • What should I do if my oral appliance feels uncomfortable or stops working effectively?
    If your oral appliance feels uncomfortable or isn’t working as well as it should, contact us right away. We can make adjustments to improve fit and effectiveness. Regular follow-ups are also important to ensure your device continues to work properly.
  • When will CNY Dental Sleep accept Medicare part B insurance?
    We are actively working on becoming an in-network provider with Medicare. However, this process can take up to 8 months as it involves several steps, such as becoming a durable medical equipment (DME) provider for Medicare, obtaining accreditation, passing inspections, and completing credentialing with different Medicare insurance plans. We are committed to making our services accessible to as many patients as possible and appreciate your patience as we navigate this process. In the meantime, we’d love to hear from you! Please comment below or reach out to let us know which insurance plans you’d like to see accepted at CNY Dental Sleep. Your feedback will help us prioritize which plans to focus on next. Thank you for your understanding and support!
  • How do I care for my oral appliance?
    To keep your oral appliance clean and in good condition, rinse it with water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the device. Store it in its protective case when not in use.
  • Is an oral appliance as effective as a CPAP machine?
    For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances are often just as effective as CPAP therapy. They are also a preferred option for those who find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use. However, the best treatment depends on your specific condition, and we’ll work with you to determine the most effective solution.
  • Do I need a sleep study to qualify for treatment?
    Yes. A sleep study is required to diagnose sleep apnea and determine if oral appliance therapy is right for you. If you already have a copy of your sleep study, please upload it during the registration process. If not, I can guide you on how to obtain one.
  • What are your office hours?
    Our office hours are as follows: Monday-Saturday By appointment Only We strive to accommodate our patients’ schedules and offer flexible appointment times to meet your needs.
  • How does an oral appliance for sleep apnea work?
    An oral appliance is a custom-fitted device worn during sleep that gently repositions your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open. This prevents the collapse of soft tissues that cause snoring and sleep apnea. It’s a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines for many patients.
  • What is a mandibular advancement device (MAD) and how can it help manage sleep apnea?
    A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a custom oral appliance crafted by dentists to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. It works by advancing the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps keep the airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and improving breathing. MADs are comfortable, easy to wear, and can be an effective alternative to CPAP machines for some patients.
  • What are the signs that I might have sleep apnea?
    Common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, frequent awakenings, morning headaches, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you or your partner notice these symptoms, it’s important to seek evaluation, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and high blood pressure.
  • What is dental sleep medicine, and how can it help me?
    Dental sleep medicine focuses on treating sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring, using oral appliance therapy. These custom-fitted devices help keep your airway open during sleep, improving your breathing and overall sleep quality. If you struggle with snoring, daytime fatigue, or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, dental sleep medicine could be a life-changing solution
  • Do I need a referral to visit CNY Dental Sleep?
    No, you do not need a referral to schedule an appointment with us. However, if you’ve already been diagnosed with sleep apnea or have had a sleep study, bringing your results can help us tailor your treatment more effectively.
  • What conditions or factors might make a mandibular advancement device unsuitable for me?
    While mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are an effective treatment for many patients with sleep apnea or snoring, they may not be suitable for everyone. Contraindications include: 1. Severe Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: If you have significant TMJ pain or dysfunction, a MAD could exacerbate your symptoms. 2. Limited Jaw Mobility: Patients with restricted jaw movement or conditions like lockjaw may not be able to comfortably use a MAD. 3. Poor Dental Health: Significant tooth loss, gum disease, or untreated cavities may make it difficult to properly fit or retain a MAD. 4. Severe Sleep Apnea: In cases of severe obstructive sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be more effective than a MAD. 5. Central Sleep Apnea: MADs are designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea, not central sleep apnea, which is caused by neurological issues rather than airway blockage. 6. Allergies to Device Materials: If you have allergies to the materials used in MADs (e.g., acrylic or silicone), alternative treatments may be necessary. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your medical history, dental health, and sleep study results to determine if a MAD is the right solution for you. If not, we’ll work with you to explore other treatment options.

315-217-1315

Fax 877-486-1488

drchobor@cnydentalsleep.com

475 Irving Ave

110 (in CNY Dental Arts Office)

Syracuse, NY 13210

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