Please note we may not offer this service at our office. Contact (253) 761-5422 to learn more.

A Comfortable Solution for Sleep Apnea

Are you struggling with restless nights, snoring, or daytime fatigue? You might be experiencing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common yet serious sleep disorder. At Petrie Advanced Dental in Tacoma, WA, Dr. Arvind Petrie offers oral appliance therapy, a non-invasive and effective alternative to CPAP machines. If you’re looking for a convenient way to manage mild to moderate sleep apnea, this could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Call us today at (253) 761-5422 to learn more about how oral appliance therapy can help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve.

mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or oral appliance therapy

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is a cutting-edge treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It involves wearing a custom-made oral appliance during sleep, similar to a mouthguard or retainer. These devices are designed to reposition the lower jaw forward and stabilize the tongue, keeping the upper airway open and preventing the collapse of soft tissues that cause breathing pauses.

This therapy is particularly effective for individuals with mild sleep apnea to moderate OSA who find CPAP machines uncomfortable or inconvenient. It’s also a great option for those who travel frequently, as oral appliances are portable, quiet, and easy to use.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, occur when the muscles in the throat relax, blocking the airway. Common symptoms include:

Loud snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
High blood pressure

Left untreated, OSA can lead to serious health complications, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving your well-being.

How Does Oral Appliance Therapy Work?

Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward and holding the tongue in a forward position. This helps keep the airway open during sleep, reducing or eliminating breathing pauses and snoring.

During your initial consultation at our Tacoma office, Dr. Petrie will assess your dental health and sleep apnea condition. If you’re a good candidate for oral appliance therapy, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made device tailored to your unique needs.

Once your appliance is ready, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to use and care for it. Regular follow-up appointments ensure optimal fit and effectiveness.

lady sleeping soundly with oral appliance therapy

Types of Oral Appliances

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

MADs are the most commonly used oral appliances for sleep apnea. They work by gently moving the lower jaw forward, which helps keep the airway open. These devices are adjustable and custom-fitted for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs)

TRDs hold the tongue in a forward position to prevent it from blocking the airway. They’re ideal for patients who can’t tolerate MADs or have specific dental issues.

Combination Devices

Some appliances combine features of MADs and TRDs, offering both mandibular advancement and tongue stabilization. These devices are customized to your anatomy and may provide enhanced results.

SomnoDent

At Petrie Advanced Dental, we’re proud to offer SomnoDent, a leading brand of oral appliances for sleep apnea. SomnoDent devices are known for their precision, comfort, and effectiveness. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly, ensuring optimal results and a comfortable fit.

Benefits of Oral Appliances

Oral appliance therapy offers several benefits as a treatment option for sleep apnea, including:

Non-invasive: No surgery or complex procedures are required.
Comfortable: Custom-fit appliances are designed for all-night comfort.
Portable: Perfect for travel, unlike bulky CPAP machines.
Quiet: No noisy machines to disrupt your sleep.
Improved compliance: Many patients find it easier to use consistently compared to CPAP.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is ideal for individuals with:

Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy
A preference for non-invasive treatments
Good dental health (e.g., no missing teeth or severe jaw issues)

If you’re unsure whether this treatment is right for you, contact our Tacoma office at (253) 761-5422 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Petrie.

Alternative Sleep Apnea Treatments

In some cases, our dentist may recommend using an oral appliance along with another type of sleep apnea treatment.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

CPAP is one of the most effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP machines deliver a continuous stream of oxygen through a mask to keep the airway open. It’s a tried-and-true method of sleep apnea treatment.

Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) Therapy

BiPAP machines provide two levels of air pressure—one for inhalation and another for exhalation. These machines may be prescribed for patients who have difficulty tolerating traditional CPAP therapy or those who require higher-pressure support.

Lifestyle Modifications

Making certain lifestyle changes can be beneficial for managing mild cases of sleep apnea or as adjunctive therapies. These lifestyle changes may include:

Weight loss: Losing excess weight, especially around the neck, can reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
Positional therapy: Some individuals experience sleep apnea primarily when sleeping on their back (supine position). Sleeping on one’s side may help reduce symptoms.
Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax the throat muscles, exacerbating sleep apnea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are oral appliances comfortable to wear?

Yes, oral appliances are crafted with patient comfort as a priority. These custom-made devices fit snugly over your teeth and are tailored to your unique dental structure, minimizing any discomfort. You’ll likely find them surprisingly comfortable and easy to wear throughout the night, ensuring a restful sleep experience.

How effective is oral appliance therapy in treating sleep apnea?

Oral appliance therapy has demonstrated significant effectiveness, particularly for those with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It’s a practical alternative to CPAP machines, which some individuals find cumbersome. However, effectiveness can vary, so a comprehensive assessment is needed to determine if it’s suitable for each person.

Can I travel with my oral appliance?

Absolutely! Oral appliances used in therapy are compact and easy to transport, making them a convenient choice for travelers. Simply pack the appliance in its provided case to ensure uninterrupted sleep and maintain your treatment regimen wherever you go.

Is oral appliance therapy covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans do cover oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. It’s advisable to review your insurance policy or consult your provider to understand the specifics of your coverage. Dental practices experienced in sleep apnea treatment can assist in navigating insurance claims, helping you maximize your benefits and make the treatment more accessible and affordable.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life. Oral appliance treatment, including trusted options like SomnoDent, offers a comfortable, effective, and convenient solution for managing obstructive sleep apnea. Whether you’re in Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, or the surrounding areas, Dr. Petrie and his team are here to help.

Call us today at (253) 761-5422 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to better sleep and improved well-being. serve patients in Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, Federal Way, Gig Harbor, and University Place.