American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) Grants Program Accreditation to San Francisco Area Dental Clinic

MILLBRAE, Calif., Jan. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Sherry P. Tsai, DDS, and the Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center have achieved a professional milestone - program accreditation from the AADSM. Accreditation means that the center has passed the most rigorous standards in terms of Proficiency, Practice and Professionalism. Furthermore, AADSM accreditation instills confidence in patients, other medical professionals and reimbursement decision makers. With this achievement, the Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center has positioned itself as a respected local leader in the field of dental sleep medicine.

An estimated 23 million adults in the United States experience some degree of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) - a serious medical condition that causes disrupted breathing during sleep. Fewer than 25% of people with the condition have been diagnosed. The Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center is at the forefront of convenient and effective treatments for this potentially debilitating condition.

Individuals with OSA present with a number of standard symptoms, including excessive sleepiness during the day, morning headaches, high blood pressure, diabetes, restless sleep, irritability and mood swings. Left untreated, moderate or severe OSA increases the risk of early death. Heart disease, high blood pressure and type II diabetes are among the secondary health conditions associated with OSA. Traditionally, this condition has been treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices - bulky, noisy machines that many patients are reluctant to use.

For patients with mild or moderate OSA, a CPAP device is not the only treatment available. Custom-designed oral appliances, commonly known as mouth guards, work by keeping airways open and unobstructed throughout the sleep cycle. These devices are FDA approved and have no harmful side effects. A custom molding and design process ensures that every oral appliance is comfortable and well fitting.

"Approximately 98% of our patients are comfortable with sleep appliances," explained Mark Draheim, CEO of the Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center. "Compare that with the low compliance rate of CPAP - 30% - and you'll understand why custom sleep apnea mouth guards are such a compelling treatment option."

Prospective patients will be pleased to learn that sleep apnea oral appliances are not in the "boutique" category of medical care, especially in light of the center's recent accreditation. Medical insurance plans typically cover some or all of the cost of appliances. Likewise, the center accepts all PPO plans, Medicare and some HMO plans. During the consultation phase, staff at the center will determine specific coverage levels and benefits.

In addition to treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, Millbrae Dental Care treats a wide variety of cosmetic and medical conditions related to the mouth and jaw. Dr. Tsai is a recognized expert in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and TMJ treatment (for problems with the jaw or surrounding muscles). Her office boasts some of the latest medical technology and personalized care, including digital X-rays and computer-simulated smile design.

About the Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center

The Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center (http://basleep.com) is a group of doctors and dentists who are leading the way in the field of alternative sleep apnea treatments. The center works with health care professionals who understand that CPAP is not the only or even ideal treatment for sleep apnea and related breathing disorders.

Contact:

Mark Draheim
Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center/Millbrae Dental Care
88 Capuchino Dr.
Millbrae, CA 94030
[email protected]
650-583-5880

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SOURCE Bay Area Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Center