If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea — or suspect you may have it — but want a solution that doesn’t involve masks, hoses, or loud machines, oral appliance therapy may be the answer.
This simple, non-invasive treatment is one of the most effective and comfortable alternatives to CPAP for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It’s small, easy to use, and proven to work.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-made device worn in your mouth while you sleep. It gently repositions your lower jaw or tongue to help keep your airway open — reducing snoring and preventing the airway blockages that cause apnea episodes.
These appliances look similar to a mouthguard or orthodontic retainer and are custom-fitted by a specially trained dentist or sleep provider.
How Oral Appliances Treat Sleep Apnea
During sleep, the muscles in your throat naturally relax. In people with OSA, this can cause the airway to collapse or become blocked, interrupting breathing and disrupting sleep.
An oral appliance works by:
- Holding the lower jaw forward
- Preventing the tongue from falling back
- Stabilizing the airway structures
- Promoting open airflow during sleep
By keeping the airway open, these devices help reduce or eliminate:
- Snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Repeated awakenings
- Daytime fatigue
Who’s a Good Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliances are an excellent choice if you:
- Have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Struggle to tolerate CPAP or prefer not to use it
- Travel frequently or need a portable solution
- Snore loudly but haven’t yet been diagnosed
- Want a more comfortable, low-maintenance option
They may also be used in combination with other treatments — like positional therapy or weight loss — for enhanced results.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Patients love oral appliances because they’re:
- Comfortable – No bulky masks or straps
- Quiet – No noise from machines or airflow
- Easy to use – Just insert and sleep
- Travel-friendly – Fits in your pocket or bag
- Non-invasive – No surgery or machines required
- Effective – Proven to reduce apnea events and improve sleep
Best of all, they’re backed by science. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
What to Expect from Treatment
Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation
We’ll review your symptoms, medical history, and any prior sleep study results. If needed, we may recommend a home sleep apnea test to confirm your diagnosis.
Step 2: Custom Fitting
Once confirmed, we’ll take digital impressions of your teeth and create a custom-fit oral appliance. This ensures it’s both effective and comfortable.
Step 3: Follow-Up and Adjustment
We’ll check the fit, adjust the appliance as needed, and monitor your results. Some patients may undergo a follow-up sleep study to confirm effectiveness.
Step 4: Long-Term Success
We recommend regular check-ins to ensure continued comfort, performance, and maintenance of your device.
Oral Appliance Therapy vs. CPAP
| Feature | Oral Appliance | CPAP Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | ✅ High | ⚠️ Varies |
| Portability | ✅ Excellent | ❌ Bulky |
| Noise | ✅ Silent | ❌ Can be loud |
| Compliance | ✅ Easier | ⚠️ Lower usage |
| Maintenance | ✅ Simple | ⚠️ More parts to clean |
| Insurance Coverage | ✅ Often covered | ✅ Covered |
While CPAP is effective, many patients find oral appliance therapy easier to stick with — and long-term success depends on consistency.
Will Insurance Cover My Oral Appliance?
In many cases, yes. Medical insurance (not dental) may cover oral appliance therapy when prescribed by a qualified provider and supported by a sleep study.
We’re happy to check your benefits and guide you through the process.
Get Started Today
If you’re ready for a more comfortable, low-maintenance way to treat sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Let’s talk. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward better sleep and better health.
Related: CPAP Alternatives That Actually Work
Related: Home Sleep Apnea Test Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Does oral appliance therapy really work?
Yes. Oral appliances are FDA-approved and clinically proven to reduce apnea episodes and improve sleep, especially in patients with mild to moderate OSA.
Is it comfortable to sleep with?
Most patients adjust quickly. Because it’s custom-fit, it’s far more comfortable than a CPAP mask for many users.
Can I use this instead of a CPAP?
Absolutely — especially if you have mild to moderate OSA. Your provider will confirm if it’s a good fit for your needs.
How long does it take to get one?
Most patients receive their device within 2–3 weeks of their initial fitting.
Do I need a sleep study before I can get one?
Yes, a diagnosis of sleep apnea is required. This can often be done with a home sleep apnea test, which we can arrange for you.
