A Convenient Alternative

  • No noise from machines or in-mask breathing
  • Easy to clean
  • Small and portable
  • Convenient for travel
  • No electricity required

  • Comfortable and easy to use
  • Reduce or prevent bruxism (grinding)
  • No hoses to get tangled in during sleep
  • No mask to cause skin irritations
  • No feelings of claustrophobia

CPAP not working?

You’re not alone. Approximately 83% of CPAP patients quit or are inconsistent in their therapy.

When a patient cannot tolerate CPAP, they neglect to use it. This non-compliance is referred to as CPAP intolerance or CPAP failure.

CPAP failure is often caused by issues outside of your control:

  • Seasonal allergies or ongoing congestion
  • Nasal, sinus or upper palate issues (such as a deviated septum)
  • Skin irritation on face
  • Nasal irritation, dryness or bleeding
  • Claustrophobia or sensation of suffocation
  • Respiratory infections
  • Abdominal bloating & gas
  • Machine disturbs sleep (or partner’s sleep)

These and other issues make CPAP failure common for many obstructive sleep apnea sufferers.

problems using a CPAP graphic | Sleep Apnea treatment | Clio, MI
small downward arrow | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

Hate traveling with CPAP?

Added Stress

Whether it’s for vacation or work, travel can be stressful. Traveling with a CPAP machine is an added inconvenience. The additional weight of the machine and getting through security checkpoints can make traveling with a CPAP frustrating.

Added Challenges

Plus, once you arrive at your destination you’ll need to find distilled or deionized water for your humidifier. Then hope there’s an electrical outlet close to your bed. And, if traveling internationally, you’ll need the correct adapter.

Added Failure

Traveling during inclement weather or to remote surroundings can lead to problems with power reliability. These scenarios require you to choose between carrying a back-up battery or going without your treatment. This also contributes to higher failure or non-compliance rates.

CPAP oral appliance text | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI
Dr. Mark Williamson | Dr. Chad Witkow | Sleep Therapy | Clio, MI
Michigan Dental Sleep Center, Inc. - Dr. Witkow and Dr. Williamson

What’s the process?

The process is simple. First, come in for a free consultation, together we’ll determine if this is the right option for you.  If it is, we’ll coordinate with your insurance company for coverage.

Second, we’ll custom fit your new oral appliance.

Third, you enjoy a good night’s rest.

small downward arrow | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

At-Home Sleep Test

A comfortable alternative

If during your consultation it is determined that you should undergo a second sleep test, we will assist you in ordering a convenient and accurate home sleep test.  In the comfort of your own bed, you’ll wear the testing device while sleeping.  A Board Certified Sleep Physician will interpret the data and we will contact you to discuss your results.  

Sleep Apnea take home test | CPAP alternative | Clio, MI
gray downward arrow | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

Michigan Dental Sleep Center

Serving this Michigan area since 1983.

Dr. Mark Williamson | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

Dr. Mark Williamson

Dr. Mark Williamson has been practicing dentistry in Flushing for more than 30 years. He is a member of The American Dental Association (ADA), Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). For the last few years, Dr. Williamson has changed his focus from practicing traditional dentistry to treating patients who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

More about Dr. Williamson

Dr. Williamson learned about the role that a dentist can play in the treatment of OSA through his daughter, a Physician’s Assistant who treats OSA herself. She explained to her father that there was a void in the treatment of OSA because there were not enough qualified dentists with the understanding of how to treat these patients.

Dr. Williamson, who suffers from OSA himself, understands the devastating effects that this disease can have on a person’s quality of life. After following the route of traditional diagnosis and treatments including Home Sleep Tests, Laboratory Sleep Tests, CPAP and Bi-pap therapy, Dr. Williamson became very motivated to help himself as well as others who are stricken with this disease.

Dr. Williamson currently has over 140 hours of continuing education in Dental Sleep Medicine and has been recognized by the AADSM as having the “Qualified Dentist Designation”.

Dr. Chad Witkow | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

Dr. Chad Witkow

Dr. Chad Witkow received his Bachelor of Biological Sciences degree in Physiology from the Michigan State University- Lyman Briggs College of Natural Sciences in 1997. He then earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2002. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Michigan Dental Association, and the Genesee District Dental Society.

More About Dr. Witkow

He regularly advances his dental knowledge through continuing education with a recent focus on the field of sleep dentistry. He received an Obstructive Sleep Airway Certification from O.S.A. University after being a DentalSleep Medicine Team Member. This coursework provides him with the opportunity to keep his skills at the highest level and learn the latest techniques available from the best dental clinicians in the world.

Dr. Witkow spends his time away from the office with his wife Jen and son Elijah. He enjoys music, going up north to vacation, cooking out in the summer, relaxing with family and friends, and keeping up with all the Michigan sports teams.

Dr. Mark Williamson | Dr. Chad Witkow | Sleep Therapy | Clio, MI

Reviews

For Michigan Dental Sleep Center

small gray downward arrow | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

Common Questions

Regarding Sleep Apnea

If I snore, do I have sleep apnea?

Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that bulky throat tissue could potentially obstruct airways – especially if patients have certain lifestyle factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment we offer for sleep apnea and snoring is the same. By prescribing a custom oral appliance, the diameter of the airway can be widened to prevent the sounds of snoring as well as episodes of apnea. These oral appliances are soft and comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.

Is it possible that I have sleep apnea even if I don't snore?

Anyone of any age can have sleep apnea. Even though snoring can accompany sleep apnea, it is not always a symptom of this sleep disorder. For this reason, it is important to have a sleep study conducted to determine if apnea is occurring. Our practice provides take-home sleep study machinery to detect episodes of apnea during sleep. After usage, the device will be returned to our practice and we will analyze the data collected. If we find that sleep apnea is present or determine if snoring is obstructing one’s quality of life, we will provide treatment recommendations.

What causes sleep apnea?

The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender. The most common risk factors include:

  • Being over age 40
  • Having a large neck (over 17 inches in men, 16 inches for women)
  • Being overweight – approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight
  • Being male – more men than women suffer from OSA
  • Having a large tongue or small jaw
  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (particularly in children)
  • Using alcohol or sedatives which relax the muscles in the airway
  • Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems

What is the difference between a CPAP and an oral appliance?

While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of  the mask and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. Therefore a high percentage of users have difficulty or will not wear them.  

An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably and can provide similar treatment benefits.

How do you confirm the effectiveness of the oral appliance?

You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm the effectiveness of the device. A consultation with the sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.

Does insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?

Insurance plans vary widely, but our experienced team has found that most insurance companies cover a significant amount of the cost for treatment. If coverage is available for oral appliances, it will come from your medical insurance carrier. Most dental insurance companies do not cover treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Our patients tell us it is well worth the investment of their time and money to treat their sleep apnea because of the improved quality of life they experience.

What if I don't have insurance?

We offer financing options and will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

How long will it take to adapt to the oral appliance? Will it hurt my teeth?

The majority of patients will adapt to the appliance within 5-10 days. It will take a few days to get used to having a device in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance will not hurt your teeth. If your teeth are sore after initial use, we can easily adjust it for your comfort.

How often will the appliance need to be replaced?

They are made of hard acrylic, which is very durable. They are typically replaced every 3-5 years depending on wear and tear. If you grind your teeth, you may have a more frequent rate of repair or replacement.

Will the appliance change my bite?

A change in your bite is possible. Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with the use of a morning re-positioning device.

Are there any side effects of the appliance?

The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, minor tooth movement occurs in some patients.

How long will I have to use the oral appliance?

Obstructive sleep apnea in unlikely to decrease with age; therefore your oral appliance will probably be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.

Can’t I just order a boil and bite device off the internet?

While there are over-the-counter appliances you can order, keep in mind these are not FDA approved for treating sleep apnea. Additionally, when not fitted properly they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.

Schedule Your Complimentary
Sleep Apnea Consultation

Fill out my online form.

Michigan Dental Sleep Center | 4279 West Vienna Road, Clio, MI 48420 | (810) 202-0351