Dental Sleep Medicine Insider March 2017 | Page 21

the perfect oral appliance . There is typically a threeweek lead time on receiving the completed appliance . Once the appliance is returned to our office a delivery appointment is scheduled with the patient .
Delivery Appointment
We deliver the device , ensure accurate fit , and demonstrate how to calibrate it . At the end of the appointment , I ensure that all my patients have a direct line of communication with me . If they have any questions or concerns , they can call or email any time . This gives them a sense of comfort and confidence as they begin treatment .
Follow-up Appointments
It ’ s important that we communicate with patients early and often during the initial phase of treatment . We schedule follow-up appointments for this ; one at two weeks from delivery and again a month later . If warranted , we have a third follow-up at three months to verify that our patient ’ s apnea is being treated . After the follow-ups are completed we send our patients home with a follow-up sleep study .
Follow-up Sleep Study
This ensures that the apnea is indeed being treated with the appliance . An appointment is scheduled with the patient to show them how to use the device and once completed they have an appointment the following day to review the results of the study . If treated adequately , the patient is scheduled for an annual recall .
I love my job . I get to see vast improvements in the overall quality of patients ’ lives .
Patients and their loved ones go from tired and worried about their apnea to well rested , healthy , and happy . It is so rewarding to know that the treatment we provide for our patients makes a difference . Having a patient tell me she is mad at Dr . Elliott and I because her clothes no longer fit after losing 65 + pounds after OAT , puts a smile on my face .
BRIANNE BOVE

Brianne Bove

Brianne Bove has assisted Dr . Erin Elliott in North Idaho for 4 years and has worked exclusively with sleep apnea patients for the last 3 years .
What sets our practice apart is the one-on-one care we provide to our patients and the relationships we build . I didn ’ t ask for this job . I was almost forced into it out of necessity but after learning , organizing and treating I couldn ’ t go back to regular dentistry . I not only love what I do but I find satisfaction each and every day when patients return with success stories . In helping patients find their “ why ”, I have found my own . What is your “ why ?”