Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
A Comfortable, Effective Alternative to CPAP Therapy
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea but find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or difficult to use, an oral appliance may be the solution you’ve been looking for. These custom-fitted dental devices offer effective treatment while allowing you to sleep naturally and comfortably.
What is a Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance?
A sleep apnea oral appliance is a custom-made mouthpiece that fits over your teeth like a retainer or sports mouthguard. The device works by gently repositioning your lower jaw forward, which keeps your airway open during sleep and prevents the breathing interruptions that characterize sleep apnea.
These FDA-approved devices treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring by maintaining proper airway alignment throughout the night. By advancing the lower jaw and tongue forward, the appliance prevents soft tissues at the back of your throat from blocking your airway when your muscles relax during sleep.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Comfortable & Convenient
- Small, lightweight, and fits entirely in your mouth
- No masks, hoses, or machines required
- Perfect for travel with no electricity needed
- Quiet operation with no noise disturbance
High Success Rates
- Clinically proven effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea
- Studies show compliance rates of 75-90%
- Significantly reduces or eliminates snoring
- Improves oxygen saturation and sleep quality
Custom-Fitted for You
- Precisely crafted to fit your unique dental anatomy
- Adjustable to optimize effectiveness
- Made from durable, biocompatible materials
- Comfortable for nightly use
Better Quality of Life
- Enjoy natural sleeping positions without restrictions
- No more disruption to your bed partner from machine noise
- Increased energy and alertness throughout the day
- Reduced health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea
Who is a Good Candidate?
Identifying sleep apnea can be challenging because many of its symptoms occur during sleep. Common symptoms include loud snoring, episodes of stopped breathing observed by another person, gasping for air during sleep, and waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat. Other symptoms include morning headaches, difficulty staying asleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and irritability.
Oral appliances are an excellent treatment option for:
- Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy
- People who travel frequently and need portable solutions
- Individuals with claustrophobia triggered by CPAP masks
- Patients seeking a less invasive alternative to surgery
You should have sufficient healthy teeth to support the appliance (typically at least 8-10 teeth per arch) and no severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
The Fitting Process
Step 1: Consultation
Your dentist or sleep specialist will evaluate your sleep apnea diagnosis, dental health, and jaw anatomy to determine if oral appliance therapy is appropriate.
Step 2: Dental Impressions
Precise molds of your upper and lower teeth are taken to create a perfectly fitted appliance.
Step 3: Custom Fabrication
Your appliance is crafted by specialized dental laboratories using high-quality materials designed specifically for sleep apnea treatment.
Step 4: Fitting & Adjustment
Once your appliance arrives, your provider will ensure proper fit, teach you how to use it, and adjust the advancement setting for optimal effectiveness.
Step 5: Follow-Up Care
Regular appointments help fine-tune the appliance positioning, monitor treatment effectiveness, and ensure the device remains in good condition.
How Wellness and Pain Can Help You
Wellness and Pain offers comprehensive solutions for individuals suffering from sleep apnea. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options to improve your sleep quality and overall health. Here’s how we can assist you:
At-Home Sleep Studies
We provide convenient at-home sleep studies, allowing you to be tested in the comfort of your own bed. This non-invasive test involves placing a small device on your fingertip to monitor your breathing and oxygen levels while you sleep​​.
Custom Oral Appliances
Our specialists can fit you with custom oral appliances designed to keep your airway open during sleep. These devices are comfortable, and easy to travel with.
Comprehensive Care
We offer a range of treatment options, including lifestyle advice and positional therapy, to help you manage and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. Our goal is to ensure you receive the best possible care tailored to your individual needs.
Benefits of Partnering with Wellness and Pain
- Improved Sleep Quality: Enhance your sleep with our effective treatment solutions.
- Reduced Health Risks: Lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes with proper sleep apnea management.
- Personalized Treatment: Receive care that is tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle.
By choosing Wellness and Pain, you are taking a crucial step towards better sleep and a healthier life. Contact us today to schedule your at-home sleep study and explore the treatment options that are right for you.
