Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment
Snoring is often a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — temporary blockage of the airway during sleep. For many patients, a dentist can provide an alternative to the CPAP machine: a custom-made, fitted oral appliance that keeps the airway open, with no mask, no tubes, and no machine.
A dentist sees snoring differently
Snoring causes health problems and stress in relationships for over 65 million Americans. The snorer is tired and unable to perform to their full potential, while their loved ones suffer the noise and sleeplessness. What most people don't realize is that snoring is frequently a symptom of a more serious sleep disorder.
As many as 32% of snorers experience temporary blockage of the airway during sleep and can actually stop breathing — obstructive sleep apnea. Left untreated, OSA can contribute to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
The oral appliance alternative
Most sleep apnea is treated medically with a mask, tubes, and a machine — and the requirement that you sleep only on your back. With extensive knowledge of the mouth, teeth alignment, and jaw structure, we can provide an alternative: a custom-made and fitted mouthpiece that maintains a healthy airway during sleep, greatly improving sleep quality for you and your loved ones.
No mask. No tubes. No machine.
If you've been prescribed a CPAP and can't tolerate it — or your snoring is affecting your household — ask whether a custom oral appliance is right for you.
Sleep apnea questions, answered
Can a dentist treat sleep apnea?
Yes — for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea or primary snoring, a dentist with training in sleep-disordered breathing can provide oral appliance therapy: a custom-made, fitted mouthpiece that keeps the airway open during sleep. It is a common alternative for patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine.
What is the dental alternative to a CPAP machine?
A custom oral appliance — a fitted mouthpiece worn during sleep that repositions the jaw to maintain a healthy airway. There are no masks, tubes, or machines, and no requirement to sleep only on your back.
How do I know if my snoring is actually sleep apnea?
Snoring is a symptom, not a diagnosis. As many as a third of snorers experience temporary airway blockage during sleep — obstructive sleep apnea. Warning signs include loud chronic snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, waking unrefreshed, and daytime fatigue. An evaluation determines whether it is simple snoring or OSA.
Is oral appliance therapy covered by insurance?
Often, yes — oral appliance therapy for diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea is frequently covered under medical insurance rather than dental. The office can help verify coverage before treatment begins.