Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that bulky throat tissue could potentially obstruct airways – especially if patients have certain lifestyle factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the oral appliances we provide can treat both obstructive sleep apnea and snoring at the same time.  These oral appliances are small and very comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.

Anyone of any age can have sleep apnea. We can arrange for a home sleep study (HST) for a diagnosis by a medical professional, a local sleep physician, or your primary care doctor. We are also able to diagnose and treat Temporomandibular Joint Disorder more commonly known as TMJD). This is a condition that causes severe facial pain. TMD most typically affects women of childbearing age, but it can also affect men and children, and the severity of each case varies from slight discomfort to significant chronic pain that interferes with eating, talking, and everyday life. Book an appointment for a consulltation.

The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender. The most common risk factors include:

• Being over age 40
• Having a large neck (over 17 inches in men, 16 inches for women)
• Being overweight – approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight
• Being male – more men than women suffer from OSA
• Having a large tongue or small jaw
• Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (particularly in children)
• Using alcohol or sedatives which relax the muscles in the airway
• Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems

While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of  the mask and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. Therefore a high percentage of users have difficulty or will not wear them.  

An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably and can provide similar treatment benefits.

You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm the effectiveness of the device. A consultation with the sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.

Because insurance plans vary widely, our experienced team will work with you to see if your insurance company will cover the oral appliance. If for any reason it isn’t covered, we will let you know and work with you to develop a financial plan if needed.

If coverage is available for oral appliances, it will come from your medical insurance carrier. Most dental insurance companies do not cover treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.  

Our patients tell us it is well worth the investment of their time and money to treat their sleep apnea because of the improved quality of life they experience.

We offer a discounted cash price for all appliances and do accept credit cards.

Most patients will adapt comfortably within two weeks with little difficulty. However, a few may require more frequent appoints during the initial adjustment period. Minor side effects for some are not uncommon during the first few days but usually subside. Teeth and bites can be sore initially for some but this can be managed by adjustments and accommodations.

Oral appliances for snoring and OSA are precision durable medical equipment devices approved by the FDA. They may need to be replaced after 3 years of nightly wear for some patients to adequately treat your snoring or OSA.

A change in your bite is possible. Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with the use of a morning re-positioning device.

The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, minor tooth movement occurs in some patients.

Obstructive sleep apnea in unlikely to decrease with age; therefore your oral appliance will probably be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.

While there are over-the-counter appliances you can order, keep in mind these are not FDA approved for treating sleep apnea. Additionally, when not fitted properly they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.