What is Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)?

For millions suffering from sleep apnea and chronic snoring, traditional CPAP machines can be a challenge. At NTX Sleep Solutions, we offer a comfortable, effective, and often preferred alternative: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT).

OAT involves wearing a small, custom-fitted dental device – similar to a sports mouthguard – while you sleep. This specially designed appliance works by gently repositioning your lower jaw and/or tongue. By doing so, it keeps your airway open, preventing the soft tissues at the back of your throat from collapsing and causing interruptions in breathing. This allows you to breathe freely, quietly, and consistently throughout the night.

Under the expert care of Dr. Rebecca Lauck, a highly specialized professional with two diplomate degrees in Sleep Apnea Treatment, patients in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and across North Texas are finding relief and reclaiming their sleep with these innovative, FDA-approved devices.

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Why Choose Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral Appliance Therapy has become a leading alternative for individuals with mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and those who are CPAP intolerant. Its numerous advantages include:

  • Comfort & Ease of Use: No cumbersome masks, hoses, or electricity needed. OAT devices are small, discreet, and fit comfortably in your mouth.
  • Highly Portable: Easy to pack and take with you when traveling, ensuring your treatment stays consistent wherever you go.
  • Quiet Operation: Unlike noisy CPAP machines, OAT devices are silent, allowing both you and your partner to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
  • Clinically Proven Effectiveness: OAT is recognized by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine as an effective treatment for snoring and mild to moderate OSA.
  • Improved Compliance: Many patients find OAT easier to stick with long-term compared to CPAP, leading to better overall health outcomes.
  • Allows for Natural Movement: You can often talk, drink water, and move freely in bed while wearing your oral appliance.
  • Expert Care & FDA Approved Devices: Dr. Rebecca Lauck has completed over 2,500 hours of continued education specifically in TMJ and Sleep Apnea treatments. She uses only FDA approved appliances, crafted by top labs in the country, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety for your treatment.

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?

OAT is an excellent option for:

  • Individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
  • Patients who cannot tolerate or are non-compliant with CPAP therapy.
  • People suffering from loud, disruptive snoring (even without a sleep apnea diagnosis).
  • Those seeking a non-surgical, non-pharmacological solution for their sleep breathing issues.

As a Medicare provider for Sleep Apnea, Dr. Lauck can help patients explore coverage options for their treatment. She will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy, ensuring the best possible outcome for your unique situation. Her extensive experience with various appliance designs means she can customize a solution that truly fits your individual case.

The OAT Process at NTX Sleep Solutions

Receiving your custom oral appliance is a straightforward and personalized process at our North Texas practice:

  1. Comprehensive Consultation: Your journey begins with an in-depth discussion with Dr. Rebecca Lauck. We’ll review your sleep study results (if available), discuss your symptoms, health history, and any concerns you have.
  2. Precise Impressions: We take accurate impressions or digital scans of your teeth and mouth. These highly precise models are used to custom-fabricate your unique oral appliance, ensuring a perfect, comfortable fit.
  3. Custom Appliance Fabrication: Your impressions are sent to a specialized dental lab that creates your personalized oral appliance using high-quality, biocompatible, and FDA-approved materials. We utilize leading devices like SomnoMed, Herbst, and ProSomnus EVO, renowned for their effectiveness and comfort, specifically chosen by Dr. Lauck for their proven track record.
  4. Fitting & Adjustments: Once your appliance is ready, you’ll return for a fitting appointment. Dr. Lauck will ensure the appliance fits perfectly and provide detailed instructions on how to use and care for it. Initial adjustments are made to maximize comfort and effectiveness.
  5. Follow-Up & Ongoing Care: Your success is our priority. We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, make any necessary fine-tune adjustments, and ensure the appliance is working optimally to alleviate your symptoms and improve your sleep quality. We also recommend follow-up with your sleep physician to re-evaluate your sleep post-treatment.

Partnering for Your Health with Dr. Rebecca Lauck

At NTX Sleep Solutions, we believe in a collaborative approach to your sleep health. Dr. Rebecca Lauck works closely with your primary care physician and sleep specialists to ensure your Oral Appliance Therapy integrates seamlessly with your overall health management plan. With her unique expertise and dedication, Dr. Lauck is committed to helping you achieve lasting, restorative sleep.

Ready to wake up refreshed and revitalized?

Don’t let sleep apnea or snoring control your life. Oral Appliance Therapy with Dr. Rebecca Lauck offers a proven, comfortable path to better sleep and improved health.