Treating Sleep Apnea With an Oral Appliance
Oral appliance therapy is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that uses a custom device called a mandibular advancement device (MAD). Worn while you sleep, the appliance gently repositions the lower jaw to help keep the airway open and reduce airway obstruction.
Unlike CPAP, oral appliance therapy does not require a mask, hose, or machine. Because each appliance is custom made for your teeth and bite, it is designed to provide a comfortable fit while supporting your physician’s treatment plan.
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that occurs when the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start throughout the night. These interruptions can reduce sleep quality and place additional strain on your overall health.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Waking frequently throughout the night
Because these symptoms can have many causes, sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a physician or sleep specialist.
Working Together With Your Physician
During routine dental examinations, Dr. Longenecker may notice signs that suggest a patient could be at risk, such as tooth wear from grinding, changes in the airway, or other oral findings. When these signs are present, he may recommend discussing your symptoms with your physician or undergoing a sleep evaluation.
Once a diagnosis has been made, we work closely with your physician to provide a custom oral appliance as part of your overall treatment plan.
Your Treatment Process
Every oral appliance is customized for your smile and carefully adjusted for both comfort and effectiveness.
Digital Scan
We begin by taking a digital scan of your teeth using our iTero® scanner. This creates an accurate 3D model without the need for traditional impressions.
Custom Appliance Fabrication
Your digital scan is used to fabricate a custom oral appliance designed specifically for your teeth and bite.
Titration and Follow-Up
Once your appliance has been delivered, Dr. Longenecker gradually adjusts its position over time through a process called titration. These small adjustments help position your lower jaw in the most comfortable location while maximizing the effectiveness of the appliance.
Regular follow-up visits allow us to monitor your progress and make any additional adjustments as needed.
Why Many Patients Choose Oral Appliance Therapy
Custom oral appliances offer several advantages for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly those who have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy. Because the appliance is custom made for your mouth, it is designed to fit comfortably and become part of your nightly routine.
Benefits include:
- Comfortable, custom fit
- No mask, hose, or machine
- Quiet to wear during sleep
- Easy to travel with
- Simple to clean and maintain
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?
Oral appliance therapy is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or for patients who have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy. Your physician and Dr. Longenecker will work together to determine whether an oral appliance is an appropriate treatment option for your individual needs.
Insurance Information
Hereford Dental Health is not contracted with any dental insurance plans. Payment is due at the time of service, and our team will submit claims on your behalf to help you maximize any available out-of-network benefits.
We work hard to make the reimbursement process as straightforward as possible and are happy to answer questions about insurance, payment options, and treatment costs before your appointment.
FAQs About Oral Appliance Therapy
Is oral appliance therapy as effective as CPAP?
CPAP remains the most effective treatment for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea. However, oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for many patients with mild to moderate OSA and for some patients who have difficulty tolerating CPAP.
What is a mandibular advancement device for sleep apnea?
A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a custom oral appliance worn while you sleep to help treat obstructive sleep apnea. It works by gently moving the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open and reduce airway obstruction.
Do dentists diagnose sleep apnea?
No. Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician or sleep specialist, often following a sleep study. Dentists can identify signs that may suggest a patient is at risk and work with physicians to provide oral appliance therapy after a diagnosis has been made.
How does an oral appliance help treat sleep apnea?
The appliance gently moves the lower jaw forward while you sleep. This helps keep the airway open, reducing airway obstruction and improving airflow.
Is a custom oral appliance better than an over-the-counter device?
Yes. Custom oral appliances are designed specifically for your teeth and bite, providing a more secure fit and allowing precise adjustments over time. Over-the-counter devices cannot be individually fitted or titrated to your needs.
Where can I get a custom oral appliance for sleep apnea in Monkton, MD?
Hereford Dental Health provides custom oral appliance therapy for patients in Monkton and throughout northern Baltimore County. Dr. Craig Longenecker works closely with physicians and sleep specialists to create custom mandibular advancement devices (MADs) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.