Dental Concerns

All health care treatment has consequences. However with proper diagnosis and meticulous care problems can be kept to a minimum. Starting with healthy teeth, gums, and jaw joints (TMJ) and following recommended maintenance, long term snoring and sleep apnea management can be achieved with little problems.

Published studies show that short-term side effects of oral appliance use may include excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing (with appliance in place), sore jaws, sore teeth, jaw joint pain, dry mouth and lips, gum pain, loosening of teeth and short-term bite changes (how the upper and lower teeth come together). There are also reports of dislodgement of ill-fitting dental restorations. Most of these side effects are minor and resolve quickly on their own or with minor adjustment of the appliance.

Long-term complications may include bite changes resulting from tooth movement or jaw joint repositioning. These complications may or may not be fully reversible once appliance therapy is discontinued. If not, restorative treatment or orthodontic intervention may be required. Follow up yearly visits or as recommended are essential to ensure proper fit and allow an examination of your mouth to assure a healthy condition. If unusual symptoms or discomfort occur that fall outside the scope of this consent, or if pain medication is required to control discomfort, it is recommended you cease using the appliance until you are evaluated further.

When patients balance the positive effects of oral appliance therapy for snoring and sleep apnea against the potential negative side effects, most realize the benefits outweigh the risks.

If there are specific concerns you have, please speak with Dr. Steinberg and his staff directly. Only proceed when you know this is the right treatment for you…the CPAP alternative.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea can be managed with the CPAP alternative!
Call Philadelphia Dental Sleep Medicine now to help with healthier sleeping!
215-735-8844