Local dentists Dr. Leslie Anthony and Dr. Mandy Stebbins recently became diplomates of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM). ABDSM is the national organization that recognizes dentists who treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by using oral appliances. Earning diplomate status from the ABDSM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in dental sleep medicine. Dr. Anthony and Dr. Stebbins are the first dentists in Montana to become diplomates.
“Sleeping with a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, which includes a face mask, tubing, and a constantly running motor, can be difficult. Many valley residents are unaware that an effective – and comfortable –treatment is available,” Anthony said in a prepared statement.
While CPAP is the standard treatment for sleep apnea, the ABDSM estimates up to 50 percent of sleep apnea patients do not comply with or tolerate CPAP. In contrast to a CPAP machine, oral appliances are a mouthguard-like device worn only during sleep to maintain an open, unobstructed airway.
“Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option that offers a higher rate of success than CPAP,” said Dr. Anthony.
Contact Dr. Anthony at (406) 752-8161. Contact Dr. Stebbins at (406) 862-3503.