Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about testing, treatment and insurance.
Do you accept medical insurance and Medicare?
Yes. We accept major medical insurance and Medicare. Sleep apnea is a medical condition and a custom oral appliance is durable medical equipment, so testing and treatment usually go through your medical plan, not dental. Call us and we will check your benefits before your first visit. How coverage works.
Do I need a sleep test?
Yes. A sleep test shows whether you have sleep apnea, how severe it is, and which treatment fits. Insurance coverage for an oral appliance also usually requires a sleep apnea diagnosis from a sleep test. About sleep testing.
Can I do the sleep test at home?
Most patients can. Our nurse practitioner orders a home sleep test, the SleepImage ring, during a telehealth visit. Pick the ring up the same day as your telehealth visit, or we ship it to your home within three to five business days. If a lab study is the better test for you, we will refer you.
Is an oral appliance as good as CPAP?
CPAP is very effective when it is used every night, but many people cannot stay with it. Oral appliances are supported for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, and for severe sleep apnea when CPAP cannot be tolerated. Because people tend to keep wearing them, they work well for many patients. We test again after treatment to confirm yours is working.
Is an oral appliance right for me?
It depends on your sleep test, your teeth and your jaw. Appliances may not suit people with loose teeth, certain jaw shapes, or jaw conditions that limit opening, and they may not be enough for the most severe cases. Dr. Lynch will tell you honestly what fits.
What happens at the first visit?
Your first visit is an extensive, paid consultation with Dr. Lynch. We talk about how you sleep and how you feel during the day, examine your mouth, jaw joints and airway, and go over your options. What to expect.
How many visits does it take to get an appliance?
Usually two: one for impressions or a digital scan of your teeth, and one to fit the appliance and show you how to use it. After that we adjust it in small steps, test again, and keep checking the fit and wear.
How do I care for an appliance?
Rinse it with warm water every morning and clean it regularly with mild antibacterial dish soap and a soft brush. It travels in a case about the size of a wallet.
Will it help my snoring?
Holding the jaw slightly forward usually reduces snoring. Because snoring is a common sign of sleep apnea, we screen for sleep apnea first.
I have jaw pain. Can I still wear an appliance?
Often, yes. We examine your jaw first, then fit the appliance carefully and move it forward gradually so it stays comfortable. It also protects your teeth if you grind at night.
I already have a CPAP I cannot use. What should I bring?
Bring your last sleep study results and what you know about your CPAP. That helps us and your insurance plan see what has already been tried.
What are your hours?
Each office is open Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 5 pm, and sees patients on Friday and Saturday by appointment. Call (623) 387-9878 to find a time, or see all three offices.
Is AZ Sleep the same as other Arizona sleep centers?
No. AZ Sleep is the dental sleep medicine practice of Dr. Janne Lynch, DDS, with offices in Scottsdale, Glendale and Sun City. We are not affiliated with other sleep centers or practices in Arizona that have similar names.
Which office should I go to?
Whichever is closest. Dr. Lynch sees patients in Scottsdale, Glendale and Sun City, and one phone number reaches all three. See all three offices.