Benefits & Value of Oral Appliance Therapy
A custom-made oral appliance fits snugly over your teeth, much like a retainer, and gently repositions your jaw to help keep your airway open while you sleep. Patients often tell us they like that it's quiet, needs no electricity, and packs easily for travel. Because we design each appliance to fit your mouth precisely, it tends to feel more comfortable than a one-size-fits-all option. Many patients who use oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea also notice less jaw tension in the morning, which pairs well with our TMJ therapy if jaw pain is part of your story too. The same careful, custom-fit approach we use for athletic and sports guards goes into every sleep appliance we make.
Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Snoring and sleep apnea can affect anyone, from busy parents to retirees, but a few signs tend to show up again and again. Watch for loud or frequent snoring, gasping or choking sounds during sleep, morning headaches, dry mouth on waking, and daytime fatigue that makes it hard to focus. Your partner may notice these signs before you do. If any of this sounds familiar, it's worth talking with our team about whether oral appliance therapy could help.
What to Expect During Sleep Apnea Treatment
Your visit starts with an honest conversation about your sleep, your symptoms, and any prior sleep study results. If you haven't had a sleep study, we can help you get connected with one so we know how to help. From there, we take digital impressions of your teeth to design an appliance that fits your mouth exactly. Dr. Debra Oldham or Dr. Joslyn Slater will review your fit at a follow-up visit and make small adjustments as needed so the appliance feels right and works well. Our whole team, including our in-office therapy dogs, is here to keep the process calm and easy, even if you've felt anxious about dental visits in the past. You can learn more about our full range of specialty and comfort care services, including laser dentistry, during your visit.
