Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Reviews Questions and Answers

The most effective oral appliance used to treat sleep apnea is known as a mandibular advancement device, or MAD. They look and act much like mouth guards, and have metal hinges that enable the jaw to slowly move forward. As the device snaps into place over both the upper and lower dental arches, each one must be custom-designed for every patient to account for the uniqueness of dental structures.

Yes, oral appliances are effective at treating sleep apnea. They present a convenient alternative for those who cannot use or tolerate a CPAP machine, and are also a non-surgical option. They are designed to open the airways by positioning the lower jaw down and slightly forward.

While both devices can provide relief for sleep apnea, allowing a person to breathe throughout the night, depending on your unique physiology and the severity of your condition, one or the other might work better for you.

– If you travel a lot, an oral appliance may be more convenient as it is smaller and more portable.
– If you move a lot in your sleep, an oral appliance may be beneficial as there are no power cords or air tubes involved.
– If you or your partner are easily disturbed by sound while sleeping, an oral appliance may be more beneficial as it does not make any noise.
– If you experience dry sinuses, sometimes a CPAP machine can exacerbate this or even cause this by the pressurized airflow, which would make an oral appliance more beneficial.
– If you have sore teeth and/or gums, a CPAP machine may be better suited as an oral appliance clips onto the dental arches.
– If you have excessive salivation or dry mouth, oral appliances can sometimes cause these conditions, so a CPAP machine may be better suited.

Although oral appliances are designed to last a long time, they do not last forever. Over time the materials will wear and degrade, with an average efficacy of around a few years. If you require an oral appliance for sleep apnea, it may need to be replaced regularly. The frequency of replacement for your oral appliance will depend on your individual situation, including how often you move your jaw in the night, how long you sleep and the unique shape of your teeth. For a more accurate estimate on how long your oral appliance will last, ask the dental professional designing the device for you.

If you or someone you know is suffering from sleep apnea and does not want to or cannot use a CPAP machine and is looking for a non-surgical option, come to Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders for a custom-made sleep apnea oral appliance! Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing a higher level of care. Call us today to book an appointment, or schedule one online to find out more about our oral appliances. We look forward to serving you!