Do Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea Really Work?

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects millions of adults, often without them realizing it. Loud snoring, restless sleep, daytime fatigue, and morning headaches are common signs - but beyond discomfort, untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other health concerns. Many patients are familiar with CPAP machines as the standard treatment, but they’re not the only option. Oral appliances have become an increasingly popular alternative.
 

What Is an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea?

An oral appliance is a custom-made dental device worn while you sleep. It fits comfortably over the teeth, similar to a mouthguard, and works by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue. This helps keep the airway open, reducing the airway collapse that causes breathing interruptions during sleep.

These appliances are most commonly used to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring. They may also be recommended for patients with severe sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
 

How Effective Are Oral Appliances?

Research shows that oral appliance therapy can significantly reduce apnea events, improve oxygen levels during sleep, and decrease snoring. Many patients report better sleep quality, improved focus, and increased daytime energy after starting treatment.

Effectiveness depends on several factors, including the severity of sleep apnea, jaw structure, airway anatomy, and consistent nightly use. Because oral appliances are custom-fitted by a trained dentist, they are far more effective than over-the-counter mouthguards or generic devices.
 

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral appliances offer several advantages that make them appealing to many patients:

• Comfortable and easy to wear
• Small, quiet, and portable - ideal for travel
• No masks, hoses, or machines
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Often better tolerated than CPAP therapy

Because comfort plays a major role in long-term treatment success, many patients find oral appliances easier to use consistently.
 

The Importance of Professional Custom Fitting

Custom oral appliances are designed based on detailed impressions of your teeth and jaw. This ensures proper alignment, comfort, and effectiveness while minimizing side effects such as jaw discomfort or bite changes. Professional oversight allows adjustments as needed and helps ensure safe, successful long-term use.
 

Find Out If an Oral Appliance Is Right for You

Oral appliances for sleep apnea really do work - and for many patients, they offer a comfortable, effective alternative to CPAP therapy. When properly diagnosed and professionally fitted, these devices can improve sleep quality, reduce health risks, and enhance overall quality of life.

Schedule a consultation with Wanlass Dental to determine whether oral appliance therapy is an effective solution for your sleep apnea. Visit our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 367-4412 to book an appointment today.