How Do Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea? Understanding Oral Appliance Therapy
Many people are surprised to learn that dentists can play an important role in treating obstructive sleep apnea.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea—or suspect you may have it—you might assume your only treatment option is a CPAP machine. However, specially trained dentists can provide custom Oral Appliance Therapy for many patients, offering a comfortable, effective alternative in appropriate cases.
At Kakaris Family Dentistry, Dr. Kakaris and Dr. Kakaris Porter work with patients to evaluate symptoms, coordinate appropriate testing, and provide custom oral appliances that help maintain an open airway during sleep.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral Appliance Therapy uses a professionally fabricated appliance worn while sleeping.
Unlike over-the-counter mouthpieces, a custom appliance is made specifically for your bite and carefully adjusted to gently position your lower jaw forward. This helps reduce airway collapse so you can breathe more easily during sleep.
Oral Appliance Therapy may be appropriate for:
- Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Patients who cannot tolerate CPAP
- Chronic snoring
- Frequent travelers
- Patients seeking a compact, quiet treatment option
Your eligibility depends on your diagnosis, overall health, and individual needs.
How Does the Process Work?
Consultation
Your first appointment includes a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, health history, and previous sleep evaluations.
Home Sleep Test
If necessary, we’ll provide a convenient home sleep test that allows you to sleep in your own bed while gathering important diagnostic information.
Custom Appliance
Using precise measurements, we create an appliance designed specifically for your mouth.
This customized approach provides improved comfort and effectiveness compared with generic devices.
Fitting and Follow Up
We’ll carefully fit your appliance, make adjustments as needed, and monitor your progress to help ensure the best possible results.
Why Patients Prefer Oral Appliance Therapy
Compared with larger equipment, many patients appreciate that oral appliances are:
- Small
- Quiet
- Comfortable
- Easy to pack for travel
- Battery-free
- Custom designed
For patients who struggle with CPAP compliance, this can be an excellent alternative when clinically appropriate.
Why Choose Kakaris Family Dentistry?
Our team believes treating sleep-disordered breathing should be straightforward, personalized, and convenient.
From your first consultation through home sleep testing, appliance fabrication, fitting, and follow-up care, Dr. Kakaris and Dr. Kakaris Porter guide you every step of the way.
We’re committed to helping patients achieve healthier sleep with treatment that fits comfortably into everyday life.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
Sleep apnea can affect your energy, your health, and your quality of life—but effective treatment may be simpler than you think.
If you’re wondering whether a dentist can help treat sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kakaris or Dr. Kakaris Porter at Kakaris Family Dentistry.
We’ll help determine whether custom Oral Appliance Therapy is the right solution for your needs and guide you through the process—from evaluation to home sleep testing, custom appliance fabrication, and restful nights ahead.