Sleep Apnea Mouthguard
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea or been told that your snoring is a serious concern, you may be wondering what options are available outside of a CPAP machine. For many people, the idea of wearing a CPAP every night feels overwhelming, uncomfortable, or simply unrealistic. The good news is that for certain types of sleep apnea, there is another effective option.
A sleep apnea mouthguard is a custom dental appliance designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. Unlike bulky masks or hoses, this oral appliance fits comfortably over your teeth and works by gently repositioning your jaw to improve airflow. For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, it can significantly reduce breathing interruptions, improve sleep quality, and lessen snoring. Understanding how these mouthguards work, who they help, and how a dentist is involved can help you decide if this treatment is right for you.
What Is a Sleep Apnea Mouthguard?
While sometimes called a mouthguard, this appliance has very little in common with a sports guard. A sleep apnea mouthguard is a medical device, typically called a custom oral appliance, designed to keep the airway open during sleep. You may see terms such as Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), which is another name for the device, or Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), which refers to the overall treatment approach. Unlike over-the-counter products, these appliances are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely, ensuring comfort, effectiveness, and long-term safety.
How a Sleep Apnea Mouthguard Works
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep. This is caused by the muscles in the back of the throat relaxing too much, which narrows the airway, and in some cases, completely closes it off. This leads to repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night.
A sleep apnea mouthguard works by gently moving the lower jaw forward, which keeps the airway open all night and prevents the tongue from falling back as well. Many patients who use this device notice improved sleep quality, reduced snoring, and fewer breathing interruptions. This device is often the best choice for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, especially when using a CPAP is a struggle.
Sleep Apnea Mouthguard vs CPAP
CPAP machines are often considered the gold standard for treating sleep apnea, especially in severe cases. They work by delivering a constant flow of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. While effective, many patients struggle with CPAP due to discomfort, noise, dryness, or difficulty sleeping with the mask and hose.
A sleep apnea oral appliance offers a simpler alternative for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It’s small, quiet, portable, and easy to use, which often leads to better long-term compliance. CPAP therapy may still be the best option for severe sleep apnea, but for patients who can’t tolerate a CPAP or want a more comfortable solution, a custom dental appliance can be an effective and life-changing option. Your dentist can help determine which treatment is most appropriate based on your diagnosis, jaw position, bite, TMJ health, and overall oral stability.
Treating Sleep Apnea with a Dentist-Made Mouthguard
A sleep apnea mouthguard can be a life-changing solution for patients who struggle with snoring, poor sleep, or CPAP intolerance. When properly designed and fitted by a dentist, these appliances can improve airflow, reduce nighttime breathing disruptions, and help you wake up feeling more rested and energized.
At Epic Family Dental, we take a personalized approach to sleep apnea treatment. Dr. Sorge carefully evaluates your bite, jaw position, and airway to determine whether a custom sleep apnea mouthguard is right for you. If oral appliance therapy is appropriate, we design a comfortable, precise appliance that fits your lifestyle and helps you sleep more soundly. If you’re tired, have restless nights, or are struggling with a CPAP, our team is here to help you explore a solution that works for your health, comfort, and long-term well-being. Contact us at (949) 492-3407 or by using the form below to schedule a consultation.
