At 805 Dentistry in Thousand Oaks, I’ve seen how sleep apnea can take a toll on patients’ health, energy, and quality of life. While CPAP machines are the standard treatment, not everyone finds them comfortable or easy to use. That’s where oral appliance therapy (OAT) comes in — a simple, effective, and non-invasive alternative.
Here are answers to the top 10 questions my patients ask about oral appliances for sleep apnea:
1. What is oral appliance therapy?
Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-fitted device, similar to a mouthguard, that you wear while sleeping. It repositions your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open, preventing the collapse that causes pauses in breathing during sleep apnea.
2. How does it compare to CPAP?
CPAP delivers pressurized air through a mask to keep your airway open. While effective, many patients struggle with the bulkiness, noise, or discomfort of the machine. Oral appliances are smaller, quieter, and easier to travel with. Studies show that for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances can be just as effective as CPAP.
3. Who is a good candidate for an oral appliance?
Oral appliances are especially helpful for:
- Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- People who can’t tolerate CPAP or prefer a less invasive option
- Those who snore heavily but don’t have severe apnea
- Patients looking for a portable solution for travel or lifestyle needs
4. How is the appliance made?
At 805 Dentistry, I take digital scans or impressions of your teeth and bite to design a custom-fit device. Unlike over-the-counter options, these appliances are tailored to your exact jaw alignment, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness.
5. Will it feel uncomfortable to wear?
It may feel a little different at first, but most patients adjust quickly. Because it’s custom-fitted, the appliance is slim and designed to be worn comfortably throughout the night. Many patients find it far more tolerable than a CPAP mask.
6. Can it help with snoring too?
Yes! Oral appliances often reduce or eliminate snoring by preventing airway collapse. This not only improves your sleep but can also give your partner more restful nights.
7. Are there any side effects?
The most common minor side effects are dry mouth, mild jaw soreness, or tooth shifting in the beginning, but these usually resolve as you adapt. Regular follow-ups allow me to fine-tune the fit and ensure long-term comfort.
8. How effective is it for severe sleep apnea?
Oral appliances are most effective for mild to moderate cases. For severe sleep apnea, they may still help but are often combined with other therapies (like CPAP or positional therapy). I’ll work with your sleep physician to determine the best approach for your specific condition.
9. How long do they last?
With proper care, most appliances last 3–5 years. I recommend bringing it to your regular checkups so I can examine the fit and function, and replace it when necessary.
10. How do I get started?
The first step is a sleep study to diagnose your condition. If oral appliance therapy is appropriate, I’ll design a custom device for you and monitor your progress closely. Many of my patients notice improvements in energy, focus, and overall well-being within just a few weeks.
A Better Night’s Sleep, Without the Mask
If you’ve been struggling with CPAP or want a simpler way to treat sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy could be the solution. At 805 Dentistry, I’m passionate about helping patients sleep better and live healthier through modern, personalized care.
📍 805 Dentistry, Thousand Oaks, CA
🌐 www.805Dentistry.com
📞 Call today to schedule a consultation and discover if an oral appliance is right for you.