While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines have long been the gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), dental appliances have become a popular and effective alternative for many patients.

Dental appliances are small devices that fit in your mouth like a retainer and help position your jaw and tongue so your airway is unobstructed during sleep. How can people with OSA benefit from using a dental appliance?

Comfort and Ease of Use

Dental appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), are known for being much more comfortable to wear and use than CPAP machines [1].

Unlike CPAP machines, which can feel bulky and cumbersome, dental appliances are custom-fitted to your mouth and designed to be more discreet. This makes them easier to wear throughout the night, encouraging better adherence to treatment and improving overall sleep quality.

Portability

Dental appliances are lightweight and compact, making them highly portable. Patients who travel frequently find it easy to pack their dental appliance without the need for additional equipment, distilled water, or electrical outlets.

This portability means patients can maintain their sleep apnea treatment even while on the go, reducing the chances of sleep apnea symptoms recurring during travel.

Reduced Noise

CPAP machines often produce noise, which can be disruptive to both the user and their bed partner. However, dental appliances are not battery-operated and make no noise, allowing for a more peaceful sleeping environment.

This can be particularly beneficial for couples, as it minimizes disturbances that could otherwise affect both partners’ sleep. Those who can’t tolerate CPAP because of the noise may find dental appliances are the better option [2]. 

Improved Sleep Quality

Some OSA patients find that dental appliances can significantly improve their sleep quality. By keeping the airway open without using a machine while sleeping, these devices can facilitate deeper and more restful sleep, leading to increased daytime alertness and improved overall health from reduced sleep apnea symptoms.

Custom Fit for Your Comfort

There are different types of dental appliances patients can use for OSA, but ones custom-crafted by your dentist are made to fit the unique structures of your mouth and jaw [3].

This customization can lead to improved comfort and better treatment outcomes for patients. Since the device fits much like a retainer and is custom-made, it can be a more comfortable and sustainable form of treatment.

Considering a Dental Appliance for Sleep Apnea?

Dental appliances offer a viable and effective alternative for managing sleep apnea. With their comfort, portability, and ease of use, they have become the preferred choice for many patients.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or have been diagnosed with the condition, ask your dentist or sleep specialist whether a dental appliance can help you improve your sleep quality, reduce OSA symptoms, and enhance your overall health.

Sources:

1. https://www.aadsm.org/oral_appliance_therapy.php   
2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/dental-appliances-for-sleep-apnea-do-they-work-2021042822476 
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6956298/ 

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OSA is a serious sleep disorder that can affect your entire life. Other symptoms of OSA include daytime fatigue, headaches upon waking, or even high blood pressure and changes in mood. Since your sleep helps restore energy and balance hormones—among many other tasks—OSA could be the culprit behind these symptoms in addition to your snoring.

Getting a Diagnosis

Dentists are trained to recognize symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, such as dry mouth or enamel erosion. However, your dentist won’t be able to diagnose the disorder. If your dentist suspects you have OSA, he or she can arrange a sleep test for you through a neurologist to get a proper diagnosis. Once the sleep study has been conducted, your neurologist can advise if sleep apnea is present or not. If obstructive sleep apnea is the cause of your snoring and abnormal sleep patterns, your dentist will likely be the person to help treat your OSA with oral sleep appliances.

Oral Sleep Appliances Can Help

Oral sleep appliances are devices worn in the mouth that help keep your airway open during sleep. Not only does this help alleviate snoring, but it can also combat the symptoms of OSA. Your dentist is the person who can treat sleep apnea by fitting you with a custom oral sleep appliance. These appliances are just like a mouth guard but are comfortable and help you breathe properly throughout the night.

Your dentist should be experienced with oral sleep appliance therapy and be able to work with you to recommend the best oral sleep appliance for your OSA. These devices are small, easily portable, and simple to take care of. Best of all, they can help you get a proper night’s rest and help treat your OSA!

Is it time to talk to your dentist about your snoring? If you’re experiencing other symptoms along with your snoring habit, it’s time to schedule a dentist visit. Your dentist can talk with you about your symptoms and refer you to a sleep specialist. Don’t let snoring or daytime fatigue take over your life—there is effective treatment! Talk to your dentist about OSA and oral sleep appliances today.

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