Patient Education

Sleep apnea, treated without a CPAP.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) happens when the airway collapses during sleep. CPAP is the traditional treatment — but for many patients, a custom oral appliance works just as well and is far easier to live with.

Could it be sleep apnea?

An estimated 1 in 5 adults has some form of obstructive sleep apnea, and most don't know it. If any of these sound familiar, it's worth a conversation:

  • Loud, chronic snoring
  • Gasping or choking at night
  • Morning headaches or dry mouth
  • Daytime fatigue despite a full night
  • Trouble focusing or memory issues
  • High blood pressure

What is oral appliance therapy?

A custom-made device that looks like a sports mouthguard. Worn only at night, it gently holds the lower jaw slightly forward, keeping the airway open so you breathe — and sleep — normally.

It's recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine as a first-line treatment for mild-to-moderate OSA, and for patients with severe OSA who can't tolerate CPAP.

CPAP vs. oral appliance

Both work. The difference is whether you'll actually wear it every night.

Feature
CPAP
Oral Appliance
Mask & headgear
Hose tethered to machine
Electricity / motor noise
Travel friendly
Custom-fit by dentist
FDA-cleared for OSA

Find out if it's right for you.

A 30-minute consultation is all it takes. We'll review your sleep study (or order one) and help you decide on the best path forward.

Book a consultation