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Snoring/Sleep Apnea

Snoring/Sleep Apnea CA

Using oral appliances for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea

Patients who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, are often told by their primary care providers that the best treatment is with a device known as a CPAP machine. The CPAP machine, an acronym for continuous positive airway pressure, is a mask-like device that delivers pressurized air to the patient’s airway while they sleep. This prevents episodes of apnea or pauses in breathing, which is the main symptom of OSA, and helps keep the airway open.

However, while CPAP machines have been proven to be effective in treating OSA, not all patients wear them because they are large, uncomfortable, and difficult to travel with. Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha of Transcendentist in Berkeley, California, find that patients better comply with treatment when they use an alternative known as oral appliance therapy.

What is oral appliance therapy?

Oral appliance therapy, also known as mandibular advancement devices, involves custom-made mouthpieces worn while sleeping. These devices work by shifting the lower jaw forward, which helps to keep the airway open and prevent apnea episodes. They are much smaller and more manageable than CPAP machines, making them a more attractive option for many patients. They are a wonderful solution for treating sleep apnea without a CPAP machine.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Do you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea? or Do you have a history of sleep apnea? 

Consider taking the Epworth Sleep Apnea Self-Test to find out*

If you believe that you are experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea and are seeking further evaluation and a definitive diagnosis, our team at Transcendentist can help. 

Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha can ask you a variety of questions, which is known as the Epworth Sleep Apnea test. This was developed in the early 1990s and is used as part of the diagnostic process for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. 

They include a number of questions asking about the likelihood of an individual falling asleep or dozing off in various situations. 

Here’s a self-test for Epworth sleep apnea. It is a simple, quick, and accurate tool to determine whether you should speak with us about your sleep habits, potential sleep apnea, or overall health. 

This tool can be used to help determine if OSA is a problem for a patient.

Question: In the following instances, how likely are you to doze off or fall asleep (as opposed to merely being tired)?

  • While reading
  • While watching television
  • While sitting inactive in a public space
  • While in a car as a passenger for an hour
  • While resting in the afternoon
  • While talking with someone
  • While sitting after lunch without alcohol
  • While at a stop light in a car
Total:

Use the following guidance to interpret your results:

Less than 10 – is considered normal.

10 or greater – you most likely have a sleep issue (apnea) and should consult with Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha

If you have a score of 15 or greater, 

You have excessive daytime sleepiness and should consult with Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha

If you feel you have sleep apnea or another sleep condition, or simply have questions regarding sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with Dr. Praj and Dr. Ruhi. 

Or you can contact us via phone at: (510) 800-7660 to request an appointment with Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha of Transcendentist at 3030 Ashby Avenue, Suite #101. 

The office is open to new patients, and we can educate you on this condition and get you the definitive diagnosis you need to start finding an effective treatment solution!

*Do not use this scale to make your own diagnoses. It is designed to help you identify your personal level of daytime sleepiness, which is frequently a symptom of a variety of sleep disorders. If you feel you have sleep apnea or another sleep condition, or if you have general questions about sleep apnea, please contact Dr. Praj and Dr. Ruhi.

How can I schedule time to discuss the benefits of oral appliances for treating sleep apnea?

At Transcendentist, we are excited to offer alternative solutions for patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. 

If you are considering switching from your current treatment with a CPAP machine to a more comfortable option, we invite you to call our office today to request an appointment with Drs. Praj Kamat and Ruhi Sangha of Transcendentist. 

The office is located at 3030 Ashby Avenue, Suite #101, in Berkeley, California, and can be reached by calling (510) 800-7660 for a visit.

Dr. Praj Kamat
Dr. Praj Kamat
Dr. Ruhi Sangha
Dr. Ruhi Sangha

Meet The Transcendentist Dentists

Dr. Praj Kamat earned her dental degree from the renowned Pacific Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Committed to providing high-quality dental care, she also believes in practicing environmentally responsible dentistry. Dr. Kamat integrates environmentally friendly practices into her approach, ensuring that her work not only benefits patients but also minimizes environmental impact. Her patient-centered care and dedication to sustainability make her a trusted dental partner for her patients.

Dr. Ruhi Sangha graduated from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Admired for her caring and compassionate approach, Dr. Sangha combines her artistic skills with advanced dental techniques to provide exceptional care. She is an avid learner, continuously updating her knowledge to ensure that the best and most up-to-date treatment options are available to her patients. Dr. Sangha’s dedication to patient-centered care makes her a trusted and skilled professional in the field of dentistry.

Success Stories

Dr. Praj has been working my teeth for awhile now. She a highly skilled dentist. She’s done three fillings for me and has the gentlest touch with the local anesthetic. She is a master of teeth cleaning!

Kalani R.
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