If you find out you have sleep apnea, your dentist may recommend an oral appliance as part of your treatment plan. A sleep apnea oral appliance is worn in the mouth when sleeping to help treat various sleep disorders. These are custom-made devices that fit comfortably and snugly over the teeth. They treat snoring, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), and teeth grinding (bruxism). Sleep oral appliances work by keeping the airway open during sleep. This means preventing the tongue from collapsing back and blocking the airway for people with OSA. Sleep apnea oral appliances holds the jaw comfortably to prevent teeth grinding for people with bruxism.
Sleep apnea oral appliances comes in different types, and it is essential to consult with a sleep dentist to find the right appliance for your needs. Sleep oral appliances are generally much more comfortable and easier to wear than CPAP machine. They’re also portable, so they can be taken with you when you travel. If you think a sleep apnea oral appliance may be right for you, talk to our dentist about getting a custom-fit sleep oral appliance today!