Sleep Apnea & Snoring Solutions
Oral Appliance Therapy
A custom oral appliance may help keep the airway more open during sleep. It is provided as part of care coordinated with your physician, when appropriate after assessment.
Oral appliance therapy is provided by our general dentist team. Sleep apnea is a medical condition. Diagnosis and ongoing medical management typically involve a physician. We can discuss whether a dental appliance may be an option as part of your care.
How an oral appliance works
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep. Snoring can occur when the soft tissues of the throat vibrate as air passes through a narrowed airway.
The most common type of oral appliance looks similar to a sports mouthguard or retainer. It gently holds the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, which may help keep the airway more open. It is custom-made from impressions of your teeth and adjusted over time.
Diagnosis comes from a physician
Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study. A dentist cannot diagnose sleep apnea. If your physician determines that an oral appliance may be suitable, our dentists can provide and fit the appliance as part of care coordinated with your physician.
Even if snoring is your only concern, we recommend speaking with your physician first, because loud snoring can sometimes be a sign of sleep apnea.
The treatment process
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Medical diagnosis
Your physician assesses your sleep, often with a sleep study, and discusses treatment options with you, which may include an oral appliance.
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Dental examination
Your dentist checks that your teeth, gums and jaw joints are healthy enough to support an appliance.
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Impressions and bite records
Impressions of your teeth and a record of your jaw position are taken so your appliance can be custom-made.
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Fitting and adjustment
Your dentist fits the appliance and may adjust it gradually over several visits to balance comfort and effect.
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Ongoing follow-up
Regular dental checkups monitor your teeth and bite, and your physician may recommend a follow-up sleep study to check how well the appliance is working.
Who may be a candidate?
An oral appliance may be considered for:
- People who snore, once sleep apnea has been ruled out or assessed by a physician
- Some patients with obstructive sleep apnea, as determined by their physician
- Patients whose physician is considering alternatives to, or options alongside, other therapies
Not every patient is a candidate, and results vary. Enough healthy teeth are needed to hold the appliance in place.
Only your physician and a dental exam together can confirm whether an oral appliance is appropriate for you.
Possible side effects
Some people notice jaw or tooth tenderness, extra saliva or a dry mouth when they first start wearing an appliance. These often settle as you adjust. Long-term use can sometimes cause small changes in the bite, which is why regular dental follow-up is part of treatment. Tell your dentist about any discomfort so the appliance can be checked. If you also grind your teeth, you may find our page on custom night guards helpful.
Sleep Apnea & Snoring Solutions
- Sleep Apnea & Snoring Solutions Overview
- Oral Appliance Therapy
Ask about oral appliance therapy
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.