Patient Information

Frequently Asked Questions

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When is a mandibular advancement splint suitable?

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What is sleep apnoea and how is snoring related?

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition where the upper airway becomes fully or partially obstructed repeatedly during sleep which cuts off your breathing and starves your body of oxygen. Some people wake up gasping for air, where as others have no idea it is happening but don’t feel refreshed after their full sleep. Snoring is a potential risk sign for sleep apnoea as it is the vibration of soft tissues in the back of the throat when becoming obstructed. Relieving your snoring will not only solve the noise issue, but it will have great benefits to your overall health allowing your body to breathe normally while you sleep.

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What is bruxism and how does it affect me?

Bruxism is the medical term for the act of grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep. Although many studies have been done to discover the true cause of bruxism, it is still unclear of the exact reason it occurs although stress has often been suggested. The effects of bruxism however is often very clear with severe wear and damage to teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues such as aching pain and stiffness. If bruxism is allowed to continue for too long, damage to your teeth and jaw joints can often become drastic and very difficult to fix. Prevention is the best cure, with custom made bruxism night-guards the first line choice.

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How does an oral appliance work?

Oral appliances for sleep apnoea/snoring are worn during sleep and act to bring your lower jaw forward, preventing the collapse of the soft tissues and tongue from closing your airway. This also helps avoid the common snoring problem as these tissues are less likely to vibrate while sleeping Oral appliances for bruxism are worn during sleep and act as a barrier between your teeth to avoid irreversible damage.

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What does an oral appliance look like?

There are many types of sleep apnoea/snoring oral appliances out there on the market but it is important to have an assessment to find the right one for you. They typically are similar to a small custom made mouthguard which cover both top and bottom teeth and act in different ways to help keep your jaw forward comfortably whilst you sleep.

How can these appliances work for so many different people?

Unlike the strongly discouraged and unproven ‘off-the-shelf’ appliances, these appliances are precision custom-fit for each individual using state-of-the-art technology 3D intra-oral scanning. It is extremely important that the appliances are adjustable as this will allow us to find the correct jaw advancement for you. Over time during your busy lives, circumstances may change, and adjusting the appliance will help with your current situation.

How long will these appliances last for?

If taken great care of, these appliances generally can last for 5 years or more and for peace of mind, most appliance types come with a 3 year warranty against any breakages or defects. Any new appliances you have made in the future with us after your first one will always be done at reduced costs.

How much does it cost and are there private health rebates for treatment?

There are private health insurance rebates available for dental extras. Amount of rebates will depend on level and type of cover. Please use the following item codes and costs to quote this with your health insurer for more guidance as QLD Dental Sleep Therapy has no control over rebate amounts and requirements. Most health insurers allow direct claiming with HICAPS at your appointment. If you are in Bupa, AIA or HCF, these insurers require the second appointment paid up-front in full and for you to submit your receipt and supporting documentation to claim the rebate amount. QLD Dental Sleep Therapy bears no responsibility for whether rebates are claimable and strongly recommend you obtain the necessary documentation prior to starting if you wish to claim the rebate amount.

Appointment 1: (Consultation, intra-oral scans/impressions, assessment and analysis – Total Cost $400 + $500 deposit = $900)

017 (if referral present) or 015 (if referral not present) – $200
963 – $100
964 – $100

If proceeding with the MAS device, a $500 deposit is required to start fabrication (credited for the next appointment)

Appointment 2: (Mandibular advancement splint oral appliance )

984 – $1,900-$2,300 (depending on appliance design and features) minus $500 deposit

Provider Number: 432697DK (for quotation purposes)

Is this a good alternative to CPAP?

A growing body of evidence is supporting oral appliances as an effective and suitable alternative treatment option for people who are unable to tolerate the use of CPAP machines. Although still regarded as the gold standard treatment for severe obstructive sleep apnoea, CPAP use can be difficult for some people. If you are not using the CPAP machine for the majority of your sleep every night, then it is recommended to try oral appliances as an alternative.

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Are there any side effects?

Most people who use oral appliances experience very little or no side effects with therapy. Minor side effects reported have included excessive saliva, jaw tenderness, bite changes or dry mouth. Most side effects are temporary and resolve over a short period of time or after adjustment of the device.

Majority of people who reported these minor side effects also say the massive positive change to their sleep and health far outweighs the minor issues