Oral Appliance Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
A Custom Alternative to CPAP
Restful Sleep Center provides custom, titratable oral appliances for adults with diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy may be appropriate when PAP is not tolerated, has failed, or when a patient prefers an alternative after discussing treatment options with a medical provider.
Custom, Titratable Oral Appliances
A mandibular advancement device is worn during sleep. It advances and stabilizes the lower jaw to help maintain an open upper airway.
Dental and TMJ Evaluation
We evaluate the teeth, gums, bite, and jaw joints to determine whether oral appliance therapy is appropriate and select an appliance based on individual needs.
Calibration and Follow-Up
After delivery, we adjust the appliance for comfort and effectiveness, monitor dental or jaw side effects, and provide long-term dental follow-up.
Learn About Oral Appliance Therapy
This patient-education video from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine explains how oral appliance therapy can help appropriate patients with obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.
How Treatment Works
The medical provider diagnoses obstructive sleep apnea and directs overall treatment. We manage the dental portion of oral appliance therapy and coordinate with the medical team.
Medical Diagnosis and Referral
A medical provider diagnoses obstructive sleep apnea and supplies the sleep-study and referral documentation required for treatment.
Oral Appliance Evaluation
Dr. Dawson evaluates dental and jaw suitability and reviews the benefits, limitations, and alternatives to treatment.
Custom Appliance Delivery
We fit a custom, titratable appliance and provide instructions for nightly use and care.
Adjustment and Side-Effect Management
Follow-up visits allow us to calibrate the appliance, improve comfort, and address dental or jaw concerns.
Medical Verification of Effectiveness
Your medical provider verifies the treatment response through follow-up sleep testing or clinical review and coordinates another option if needed.
Why Many Patients Prefer Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy may be appropriate for adults with diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea who cannot tolerate PAP, have stopped using it, or prefer an alternative. A custom oral appliance is compact, quiet, portable, and has no mask, hose, or electricity. Many patients find it easier to tolerate than PAP, and the AADSM reports that patients tend to prefer oral appliance therapy and use it more consistently. Individual responses vary, so a medical provider should verify treatment effectiveness.