For many patients with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea and chronic snoring, oral appliance therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment option. At Dental Sleep Medicine of Charlotte, our doctor, Dr. Sudikoff, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) and specializes in providing these custom-fit devices as a successful alternative to CPAP. Dr. Sudikoff’s passion for this therapy began with helping her own patients who couldn’t tolerate their CPAP machines, leading her to focus on providing these comfortable and effective solutions.
An oral appliance is a small, mouthguard-like device worn only during sleep. It works by gently repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, allowing for a steady flow of oxygen. This prevents the tissues from collapsing and blocking the airway, which is the primary cause of obstructive sleep apnea.
The Unmatched Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
● Non-Invasive: No masks, hoses, or machines. This makes it a great choice for patients who feel claustrophobic or are bothered by the bulky equipment.
● Comfortable: Each device is custom-molded to the patient’s teeth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit that won’t disrupt sleep.
● Quiet & Discreet: Oral appliances are silent, allowing both the patient and their bed partner to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep without the noise of a machine.
● Travel-Friendly: The small size and lack of a power source make oral appliances easy to pack and use anywhere in the world.
Common FAQs About Oral Appliance Therapy
How does an oral appliance compare to CPAP?
CPAP therapy is highly effective, but studies show that many patients struggle with long-term compliance due to discomfort, noise, or inconvenience. Oral appliances offer similar effectiveness for many patients with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, with much higher compliance rates due to their comfort and portability.
Will the appliance hurt my teeth or jaw?
When properly fitted and monitored by a qualified dentist, an oral appliance should not harm your teeth. You may experience some initial jaw soreness or muscle fatigue in the morning, which typically resolves quickly. We provide a morning repositioning device to help your bite return to its normal position.
How long will I have to use the oral appliance?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a lifelong condition. Therefore, your oral appliance will likely be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors, such as significant weight loss, may improve your symptoms over time.