Breathe Easier, Sleep Better with a Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
Updated 12-05-2025
Do you snore loudly? Feel exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep? You might be dealing with sleep apnea, a common (and often underdiagnosed) condition that affects your breathing while you sleep. The good news? Your dentist might be able to provide relief with a custom-fitted dental mouthpiece.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in which the soft tissues in the throat collapse and block the airway.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues like:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes Daytime fatigue and drowsy driving
- Mood changes and memory issues
The Traditional Treatment: CPAP Machines
Most people have heard of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy. It’s effective, but let’s be honest: not everyone can tolerate wearing a mask connected to a machine all night. Many patients struggle with the bulkiness, noise, and discomfort of CPAP.
That’s where your dentist comes in.
A Simpler Solution: A Mouthpiece for Sleep Apnea
A custom dental mouthpiece can be a game-changer for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These mouthpieces gently reposition your lower jaw and tongue to keep your airway open while you sleep. They’re:
- Comfortable
- Quiet
- Portable
- Easy to clean
And best of all? Many patients find them much easier to stick with than CPAP.
What to Expect with a Sleep Apnea Mouthpiece
At First Impressions Dentistry, we’ll work closely with you (and your physician or sleep specialist) to determine if a mouthpiece is the right sleep apnea treatment for you. Here’s how it works:
- Consultation and Evaluation: We’ll review your symptoms and any sleep studies and check your airway and bite.
- Custom Fit: If you’re a candidate, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a precise, comfortable mouthpiece.
- Adjust and Monitor: Once your device is ready, we’ll fine-tune the fit and follow up to ensure it’s working well.
Don’t Ignore the Snore
Snoring isn’t just annoying; it could signal something more serious. If you or your partner suspect sleep apnea is causing it, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s discuss how we can help you breathe easier and sleep more soundly without the hassle of a CPAP.