CPAP Intolerance
For patients who can't adjust to a CPAP mask or travel frequently, an oral appliance is small, quiet, and easy to carry.
Airway & Sleep Wellness
Sleep Apnea & Snoring Therapy in Florence, AL
Obstructive sleep apnea affects rest, cardiovascular health, and daytime energy. Custom dental oral appliances offer a comfortable, CPAP-alternative option that gently holds the airway open during sleep — helping you (and your partner) rest better.
How a Dentist Helps With Sleep Apnea
Dentists can provide custom oral appliance therapy for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, or for patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine. The appliance repositions the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward to help keep the upper airway open during sleep.
A sleep physician should diagnose sleep apnea and guide therapy decisions. Oral appliance therapy is often recommended when CPAP is not tolerated or for milder cases. We work alongside your medical team, not in place of it.
Who May Benefit
Mild–Moderate OSA
Oral appliance therapy is often recommended for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, based on a sleep study and physician guidance.
Snoring
By holding the jaw forward, a custom appliance can reduce or eliminate snoring for many patients, improving sleep for the whole household.
What to Expect
- Consultation: We review your sleep concerns and any existing sleep study, and assess your jaw and airway.
- Impressions: Custom impressions or digital scans are used to fabricate your appliance.
- Fit & adjustments: We fit the appliance and fine-tune it for comfort and effectiveness.
- Follow-up: Periodic checks confirm the appliance is working and remains comfortable.
An oral appliance is not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment of sleep apnea. If you suspect sleep apnea, a physician-supervised sleep study is the right first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a dentist help with sleep apnea?
Dentists can provide custom oral appliance therapy for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or for patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine. The appliance repositions the lower jaw and tongue to help keep the airway open during sleep.
Is an oral appliance a replacement for a CPAP?
An oral appliance is an alternative for some patients, not a universal replacement for CPAP. A sleep physician should diagnose sleep apnea and help determine the appropriate therapy. Oral appliances are often used when CPAP is not tolerated or for milder cases.
Does the appliance stop snoring?
By holding the jaw forward and opening the airway, a custom oral appliance can reduce or eliminate snoring for many patients. Results vary depending on the cause and severity of the snoring.
Related Treatments
Next Step
Not sleeping well? Snoring keeping others up?
Ask about oral appliance therapy at Coker Dentistry in Florence, AL. We'll help you understand whether it fits your situation.